Ernest Pichner Jr, 91, of Claremont, died Sunday, March 10, 2019 at Fairview Care Center in Dodge Center. He was born June 21, 1927 in Havana Township the son of Ernest and Helen (Broin) Pichner, Sr. Ernest married Rosemary Meixner on June 6, 1950, at Associated Church in Owatonna. The couple had one son. Ernest was a member of the District 68 School Board, the Havana Township Board, the Starks Corner Creamery Board, and the First Presbyterian Church of Claremont. His favorite pastimes included fishing, hunting, woodworking, and dancing the polka. Ernest loved to be outside and had a passion for farming his entire life. He was hardworking and skilled. His strong work ethic and appreciation for nature was something he passed down to his family members. Ernest loved his family dearly. He also had a love for animals, especially dogs. Ernest is survived by his son, Jimmy (Patricia) Pichner of Apple Valley; grandson, Chris (Stephanie) Pichner of New Brighton; great grandsons, Alexander and Nathan; sister in law, Jane (Robert) Benson; and special friend, Marian Houglum. He was preceded in death by his wife Rosemary; brother, James (Loretta) Pichner; and sisters, Mae (Claude) Johnson and Harriet (Lowell) Nelson. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home, Owatonna, on Thursday from 5-8pm and at First Presbyterian Church on Friday from 10-11am. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 15, 2019 at 11am at First Presbyterian Church, Claremont with Reverend Douglas Walters officiating. Interment will be in the Bohemian National Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to First Presbyterian Church of Claremont or the Fairview Care Center.