Ernest "Ernie" Lee Dubes

Ernest “Ernie” Lee Dubes, 56, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love of his family after a long and courageous battle with glioblastoma.

Born on February 18, 1970, to Ronald Lee Dubes and Carolyn Lank Dubes, Ernie lived a life deeply rooted in love, loyalty, and family. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Lee Dubes, and is lovingly remembered by his mother, Carolyn Dubes of Westpoint, Indiana.

On March 24, 1995, Ernie married the love of his life and best friend, Dara Dubes (Cunningham), who survives. Their love story was one that meant so much to Ernie. As a teenager, he chased after Dara for years, and later in life, he was blessed to find her love again. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Ernie lovingly raised his two stepdaughters as his own, Fawn Glover (Christopher Glover) and Amber Holle (Christopher Holle), and the bond they shared was one of unconditional love and pride.

Nothing brought Ernie greater joy than his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and Papaw whose love could be felt in every moment spent with those he cherished most. He leaves behind his beloved fur babies, Draco and Ruger, along with five treasured grandchildren: Liberty Barricks (his “Pretty”), Aidan Holle, Addalynn “Gracie” Holle, Adler Holle, and Bryson Glover, all of whom brought endless happiness to his life.

Ernie was a dedicated Philadelphia Eagles fan and loved NASCAR, but beyond his hobbies, he will be remembered most for his strength, his kind heart, his incredible sense of humor, and the quiet way he always showed up for the people he loved. He had a way of making people laugh, lightening even the hardest moments with his quick wit and playful spirit. He fought a long and hard battle with glioblastoma and never gave up, facing each day with courage, determination, and unwavering love for his family.

In addition to his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and mother, Ernie is survived by his three sisters: Deb Austin (Greg) of Battle Creek, Michigan; Lesa Crouse of Westpoint, Indiana; and Sherri Cain (David) of Delphi, Indiana; sisters-in-law Wilma Myers (Kevin Runyon) of Lafayette, Indiana, and Glenda Ruch (Kevin) of Mulberry, Indiana; along with many nieces and nephews who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

Ernie’s family finds peace in knowing he was able to spend precious time with those he loved most before passing peacefully at home.

Private services will be held by the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to a charity you are passionate about or to your local humane society in Ernie’s honor.

Just like the Bald Eagle he admired so deeply, Ernie’s spirit is now free to soar — flying high, at peace, and resting easy with his Lord and Savior.

Though his presence will be missed beyond words, the love he gave so freely will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him forever.