Ernest “Ernie” Dean Tarver

Ernest “Ernie” Dean Tarver, known for his grit, humor, and passion for life, was born May 5, 1941, in Etowah, Ark., to Jack C. Tarver and Elsie (Rollins) Tarver. His early years were spent in rural Arkansas and Kalamazoo, Mich., where he would eventually build his home and raise his family. He passed away Sep. 22, 2026, at his home in Mountain Grove. Ernie began working in the masonry trade as a teenager, beginning a career that became one of his greatest passions. A proud member of the Bricklayers Union, Local No. 2, he took tremendous pride in his craft. Throughout his career, he worked on hospitals, banks, malls, and residential homes, often sharing stories about the projects he helped build. He specialized in fireplaces, creating beautiful and lasting work that reflected his skill and dedication. While masonry was an important part of Ernie’s life, it was his personality and love of people that made him unforgettable. Everywhere he went, he seemed to know someone—and if he didn’t, he quickly made a new friend. After moving to Missouri during the last year of his life, he introduced himself as “Uncle Ernie,” a name that suited him perfectly. Ernie was an avid fisherman who enjoyed both ice fishing and open-water fishing. He often said, “Every day fishing was a good day.” In his later years, he could frequently be found on the water with his nephew and fishing buddies, Darrel and Rita Tarver. Those days brought him tremendous happiness. He also loved walking in nature and had a special place in his heart for the family farm in Michigan. The farm was his haven, it was where he could enjoy the land and fish in the lake, while finding peace. Although he loved the warm weather after retiring to Florida, he always missed his Michigan farm, and the fishing, he enjoyed there.
Preceding him in death are his parents; children, Terry Tarver and Diane Hollyfield; sister, Phyllis Harbin; and brothers, Dallas Tarver and Tommy Sword and wife, Kathleen. Ernie leaves behind his children, Gary Tarver, Mike Tarver, Deana Goldsmith, Missy Hurst (Joel) and Tammy Dykstra (Randy); brother, Jack L. Tarver; numerous grandchildren; a great-grandchild; along with several nieces, nephews, and many friends, who became like family. Ernie’s grit, humor, generosity, and love of life will be deeply missed. His legacy lives on- not only in the buildings and fireplaces he helped create, but in the stories, laughter, friendships, and memories he leaves with those who knew and loved him.  We hope Ernie has already found the perfect fishing spot, so every day is a good day.  A memorial service was held at 10 a.m., Monday, Sep. 28, 2026, at the South Street Church of God in Mountain Grove. Pastor Johnny Williams officiated at the service. Song selections included “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” “A Country Boy Can Survive,” “Far Side Banks of Jordan,” “Mountain Music,” “My Way” and “When I Get Where I’m Going.” Arrangements were under the direction of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home of Mountain Grove. Online condolences: www.craighurttfuneralhome.com.