Ervin Dill

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Ervin Aaron Dill, age 94, earned his Victory, entering the presence of Jesus at 12:14 am, Thursday, April 8, 2021, at a family home following a short illness.

Ervin was born December 31, 1926 in Columbus, KS, to Harrison L Dill and Effie Edith (Griffin) Dill. He lived most of his life there with eight beloved siblings, including a twin brother. 

In his adulthood, he worked as a heavy equipment operator, making many areas of the Midwest with bridges, roads, and various projects that still stand today. He was a life-long member of the United Presbyterian Church, Columbus, KS serving many decades in multiple capacities of leadership there.

Ervin was married to his loving wife, Edna L. (Swanson) on March 5, 1948. In her later years Ervin tenderly cared for his beloved wife in their home and then visited and fed her three times a day in the nursing home until she preceded him in death on March 6, 2012. Together they worked to serve the Lord trough their church, local schools, and various organizations including the Summer Free Lunch Program for children in Columbus. First and foremost, Ervin was a servant of Jesus Christ, exemplifying throughout is life the command found in Matthew 25: 31-40, to feed the hungry and thirsty, to invite strangers in, to clothe the naked, and visit the sick and imprisoned. Ervin loved his family, his church, and people and he knew no strangers; these values were at the forefront of every interaction he had, and he modeled these lessons consistently for his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, neighbors, friends, and co-workers. He was a “do-er” who enjoyed farming, fishing, family outings, attending his grandkids’ and great-grandkids’ sporting events and activities, telling stories, watching westerns and The Andy Griffith Show, doing his Bible studies, enjoying his daily indulgence of Dr Pepper and a Snickers or Thee Musketeers, playing board games, and going for drives.

Surviving are three children; Edith Leah Lewis, Fort Scott, KS, Glenda L Davidson (Frank), Joplin, MO, and Mark Arron Dill (Cindy), Independence, KS; seven grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great grandchildren. His family and all who knew him will miss his infectious smile and belly laughs, his “dad” jokes, pranks and fun-loving nature, love of the Fourth of July, and his famous prayers. Most of all, we’ll miss his hugs and the absolute confidence in his love and devotion for us.

He has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Columbus, KS for cremation. Graveside services will be at 10:30 am, Saturday, April 17, 2021 at the Park Cemetery Pavilion, Columbus, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the following: Community Free Lunch Program in care of Judy Leighty, United Methodist Church, 320 W Maple, Columbus, KS 66725 or the Beacon, an outreach ministry at 2 E 6th, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Both perfectly align with Ervin’s life’s work and passion for caring for others.