Ernest F. "Ernie" Matelski, 83, passed away due to natural causes at the Northern Montana Care Center on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.  Cremation has taken place, and memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Grace Chapel in the Northern Montana Care Center.  Burial will follow in Highland Cemetery with military honors.  Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements.

Ernie was born on August 30, 1942, in Chicago, IL, to Stephen and Frances (Mager) Matelski.  He was raised in the Chicago area, graduating from high school there.  He enlisted in the US Army in 1960, and served in Berlin, Germany, until he was honorably discharged in 1963.  Ernie returned to the United States and settled in Minnesota where he married Marlene Fish.  He had four children with her and took her daughter as his own.  The couple divorced in 1971, and he later married Elizabeth "Betty" Fors with whom he had another daughter and took her five children as his own.  Ernie and Betty relocated to Havre, Montana, in the late 70s.  For the majority of his time here, Ernie worked as a CNA for the hospital and the Havre Day Activity Center.  Betty passed away in 2004.

Ernie enjoyed bowling, time with his family, drives to the mountains and traveling with Betty, listening to country music, and watching westerns.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Matelski; daughters, Dawn Fish and Dawn Harsh; sons, Robert Lee Matelski, and Larry and Kenneth Hanson; parents, Stephen and Frances Matelski; and brother, Ted Matelski.

Ernie is survived by his children, Theresa Matelski of Minnesota, Ernest Matelski, Jr., of Hillsboro, ND, Sherri Matelski of Minnesota, Lisa Matelski and Kimberly Hanson, both of Havre, and Brenda Hanson of Portland, OR; numerous grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; brother, Stephen Matelski of Minnesota; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family and friends.