Ernest (Ernie) Martin Vollmer (88) passed away on May 21, 2025. Born in 1937 on a farm in Breckinridge, Minnesota, Ernie moved to Spokane as a small boy. He was a graduate of Gonzaga High School (1954), Gonzaga University (BA, 1958), and Eastern Washington University (M.Ed., 1975). He joined the Marine Corps and served both active duty and in the reserves for 26 years, retiring as a lieutenant colonel.

He married Carol Jean Cormier in 1960, had three brilliant children and lived in the Audubon Park area of Spokane for over 60 years. Ernie and Carol had many great adventures, shared each other's hobbies, and had lots of fun throughout their long and happy marriage.

Ernie was kind, generous with his time, patient, funny, and well loved. He was a devout Catholic and a longtime member of St. Charles Parish and the Knights of Columbus. Ernie was a beloved 6th grade teacher and coach at the former Blair Elementary on Fairchild Air Force Base for 30 years. He was a lead singer and guitar player with the bluegrass band "Don't Fret It" releasing three CDs. He was a regular at Auntie's Bookstore's bluegrass jams on Sundays and enjoyed busking for charity during Street Music Week. He was the founder and coordinator for the Monday Night Tennis Community Nights at SFCC for over 25 years and enjoyed playing tennis with people of all ages, always bringing quarters for the lights. He was a member of the Tennis Association of Greater Spokane and played (and won!) many USTA tournaments. Ernie was a Bloomsday Finisher for 31 consecutive races 1984-2014. He donated gallons of blood to the blood bank. Ernie, always the extrovert, loved people and social gatherings, had many close friends and touched many lives. He was a fabulous storyteller.

His other hobbies included reading, cheering Gonzaga Basketball, camping, woodworking, quilting, flying Space-A travel, being a skilled marksman, and picking up litter wherever he went.

Ernie is survived by many people who adored him and will miss him terribly. His loving wife of 65 years, Carol; his children Michael (Erica), Dan (Cyndi), and Cathy (Roger); five grandchildren; three great grandchildren; his younger sister Rita Wetzler; many nieces and nephews; and dear friends from all areas of his life.

Please join us in honoring Ernie's remarkable life. Catholic Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, June 21st at 11:00 am at St. Charles Church, 4515 N Alberta St, Spokane. Rosary service before the mass at 10:30 and reception following. Inurnment at a later date at the Washington Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to KPBX Public Radio or go pick up litter in his memory.