Ernie James Hillsman, 59 of Holden, Missouri passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, November 11, 2020 near Holden.

Ernie was born March 1, 1961 in Warrensburg.  He was raised in Holden having graduated from Holden High School.  Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Army National Guard, where he served for eighteen years.  Ernie was a lifelong Holden resident.  He owned and operated Ernie's Home Repair for several years.  More recently he did Commercial Solar Farming, with his son, son-in-law and brother.  Ernie had a creative mind, having been known for inventing things.  He knew and was known by nearly everyone in the Holden area.  He never knew a stranger.

Survivors include daughter: Samantha Holtz (Mike) of Holden, MO; sons: Alex Hillsman (Megan) of Raytown, MO and Dalton Woods of Holden, MO; parents: Judy and Denver Wood of Holden, MO; sister: Jeanie McIntyre (Jeff) of Holden, MO; three brothers: Steve Hillsman (Mary) of Holden, MO; Doug Kombrink of Holden, MO and Denver Wood, Jr. of Holden, MO; eight grandchildren: Morgan Holtz, Hunter Higgins, Jack Holtz, Collin Cooper, Elicia Ridenhour, Malorie Canella, Gabby Woods and J.D. Woods; and great granddaughter: Rozlynn Marie Pemberton.  He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Ernest & Josephine Thompson; paternal grandparents: James & Ruby Hillsman and sister: Rhonda McBride.

Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 17 ^th at Forward Community Church in Holden with Pastors Dexter Snyder and Mike Wakeman co-officiating. Interment will follow at the Holden Cemetery with Military Honors. Pallbearers will be Alex Hillsman, Mike Holtz, Dalton Woods, Doug Kombrink, Jeff McIntyre, and Billy McBride,

The family will receive friends, one hour prior to service, Tuesday at the church.

Arrangements entrusted to Williams Funeral Chapel in Holden.

A memorial fund, in Ernie's name, will be established.

Online condolences may be left at www.williamsfuneralchapel.net