Ernest Darlow, Sr.

Ernest Darlow, Sr. 68 of McGregor passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids.  He was born June 14, 1957 in Saint Paul the son of Robert and Lenore (McShea) Darlow.  He attended school in Saint Paul and in McGregor.  He grew up in the river bottom of Lillydale (St. Paul) where his family suffered through many floods.  Eventually relocating to the Rice Street area where in 1973 he would meet his future wife, JoAnn Bloom living right next door.  He and JoAnn moved to McGregor in 1983 and ran their excavating and septic system business.  Ernest was united in marriage to JoAnn on May 23, 1986 on the St. Croix River.  He will be remembered for his story telling, devotion to his family and unwavering generosity to anyone in need, especially of a meal. 

He was preceded in death by his wife JoAnn on November 6, 2023;  Brother and sister-in-law: Jack (Judy) Darlow;  Sister and brother-in-law: Kathleen (Bert) Wold;

and his parents Robert and Lenore Darlow. 

Ernest is survived by his son and daughter-in-law: Ernest and Sarah Darlow, Jr.; Grandchildren: Ean and Abigail Darlow;  Brothers and sisters-in-law: Joe (Cheryl) Darlow, Bill (Sue) Darlow;  Sister: Laurie Barilla; and many special nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral service will be 11:00am – Saturday, April 18, 2026 at McGregor Funeral Home in McGregor.  Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Following the funeral service, lunch and fellowship will be at the Rustic Trail in Palisade.  To leave a message of condolence go to www.srtfuneral.com

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