Ernest “Ernie” May, 84, passed away Sunday, February 17, 2013.
Not often are we blessed with a person that through his efforts has made such a great impact on so many lives. Ernie was born in Romania in 1928. In 1944 during the War, he and his family left their winery and moved to Austria. There he was able to learn the Tool & Die trade and serve his Apprenticeship. He then moved to England, where he spent eight years working and waiting for a Visa to immigrate to the United States. He arrived in the US in December 1955 and was staying with his sister in Lawrence, Kansas. After only a few weeks he traveled to Kansas City, where he met Theresia Reinhart, visiting from Germany, at the German Club of Kansas City’s Christmas Party. They were married in 1956. After starting their family, in 1964 Ernie built his American dream, May Tool & Mold, Co., a Tool & Die Shop. He spent his life building his company and raising his family with a strong, honest work ethic.
He leaves behind a legacy that will be a challenge to surpass. He was one of the most patriotic Citizens you will ever meet. He was forever thankful for being accepted to this Country, and for being able to work with and meet so many great people. He left his mark and will be greatly missed, by Theresia May; their two sons, Steve (Gayla) May and Reno (Ronda) May, both of Grain Valley; 4 grandchildren, Kristin, Erin, Austin, and Alexandra May; and all the employees of May Technology & Mfg Co, Inc. He may have had a small family, but he was loved and respected by many.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 22, 2013 at Royer Funeral Home in Grain Valley from 5-7pm with Services beginning at 7pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association in Ernie’s name.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Grain Valley, MO 816-847-4441