Scott "Snowball" Ernst

Scott Ernst, 68, of Columbus died Tuesday April 7, 2026 in Lincoln.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 13, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Platte Center. Visitation is 3:00-5:00 p.m. Sunday, April 12 at McKown Funeral Home and continues on Monday from 9:30 am until service time at St. Joseph Church in Platte Center.

The family requests casual attire or Ernst lake clothing for the services.

Scott “Snowball” Ernst was born on November 24, 1957, in Columbus, Nebraska, to Lloyd and Norma Ernst. He grew up knowing two things for sure: he loved his family, and he never met a shortcut he trusted. He graduated from Lakeview High School in 1976 and wasted no time marrying his high school sweetheart, Renee, in 1977. The two of them built a life filled with love, laughter, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. Together, they welcomed three children who kept him on his toes.

Scott spent his lifelong career driving truck, proudly taking “the scenic route” whenever possible. He claimed it was for the views, but everyone who rode with him suspected it was because he just liked an adventure—and maybe because he thought he knew a better way.

After retiring, Scott found joy in the simple things. He helped maintain Ernst Lake, fished whenever the weather gave him an excuse, and took on more projects than he ever intended to finish. (And if you ever asked when one would be done, he’d flash that grin and say, “Don’t worry.”) His garden was his pride, though the weeds might tell a different story. Above all, he loved spending time with his family and friends—sharing stories, teasing the grandkids, and making sure no one left without a hug.

Scott will always be remembered as a simple man with a big heart, an easy laugh, and a talent for making every moment feel like home. He is loved deeply and will be missed beyond measure.

Survived by :

Wife Renee Ernst

Daughter Abby (Mark) Sliva

Son Nathan (Michala) Ernst

Daughter Audra Coufal

Grandchildren Rylie (Davonte) Mouton, Ava (Coy Meysenburg)Cremers, Caden Coufal, Kiersten Hadaway, Rhyan Ernst, Kaeson Ernst

Great Grandchild Bexley Mouton

Sister Pam (Dennis) Micek

Sister in law Marla Ernst

Brother in law Gus’s Schrad

Including other relatives and friends

Preceded by :

Parents Lloyd and Norma Ernst

Parents In law : Harold and Patrica Driefurst

Siblings : Mike Ernst, Larry Ernst, Jackie Schrad