Clarence "Ernie" Ernst McDade Jr.

Ernie McDade, 78, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on December 19, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 25, 1945, in Charleston, Illinois to Betty Mae (Pearcy) McDade and Clarence Ernst McDade. Ernie, also known as Clarence Ernst McDade Jr., was a loving father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, cousin and nephew. Ernie is survived by his brothers Daniel McDade, Timothy McDade (Maryann), Mark McDade (Lanae), and David McDade. He is also survived by his daughter Adonna McDade-Ward (Donnie Lente), grandson Cameron Davis (Jillian), great-granddaughter Payton Davis, children, Kara Kannberg and Patrick McDade (Jensine), and grandsons Gavin and Griffin Kannberg. Ernie held a special place in his heart for his beloved nieces Lori Knoll (Michael), Michelle (Steve) Easton, Christa Rede (Ray), and Alisha McIlmail as well as his beloved nephews Ben McDade (Monica) and Sam McDade (Maria). Great Nieces and nephews Chad, Leanna, and Faith Knoll, Brandon and Blake Moore, Jaymie Rede, Kennedy McIlmail, Samuel, Camila, Danny and Hayden McDade, Easton and Kassy Noel, Helmrich and Alexis Morris. He also had a close relationship with his aunt, Irene Capista, and cherished the time spent with his many cousins whom he visited annually. Ernie proudly served in the Army for 3 years and was a dedicated member of the military community. His commitment and service will always be remembered. Throughout his career, Ernie worked as a carpenter and was known for his exceptional handyman skills. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. In his free time, Ernie enjoyed going to the baseball games. He loved to haggle with his daughter about the better team, the Rockies or Diamondbacks. He was very serious about his bowling and loved his bowling friends dearly! He had a passion for traveling to visit loved ones and friends. He especially cherished the moments when he could travel with a family member by his side. You could always find him with a camera in his hands snapping professional-grade pictures wherever he went. Services to celebrate Ernie's life will be announced at a later date. A military service with honors is also being planned. Ernie McDade will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.