Obituary of Erma G. Hirning

ERMA G. HIRNING 104, peacefully passed away October 21, 2023 at Seven Lakes Memory Care in Loveland Co.

A longtime resident of Estes Park Co. Erma was born on July 2, 1919 in Galloway MO to Ashil and Merola Garrison. She grew up there with her parents, two sisters Louise and Wanda “Gay”, and two brothers Clarence, and Sonny.

After high school graduation Erma attended Hardin College and received her teaching certificate. She briefly taught elementary aged children in a country school house. During the early 1940’s Erma traveled to Globe/Miami AZ where she worked at the copper mines preparing and serving meals to the miners. She was a member of Twin City Culinary Workers Union Local No. 680 Miami AZ. She eventually made her way to Burt, ND where she met and married her husband Ruben Hirning. They moved to Colorado in the early 1950’s and then to Estes Park in 1955. Erma was a well-known waitress in Estes Park working in many early restaurants including Harry Nortens, Range Restaurant, Colter’s Waffle Shop, Crowley’s Restaurant, and eventually retiring after 16 years with Nicky’s Restaurant

Erma and Ruben’s favorite time of year was during the Christmas holiday season where they were locally known for their beautiful decorations and winning the local decorating contest many times.

Erma is survived by her children Robert (Jill) Hirning of Loveland CO, and Betty Bowersox of Wyoming, Sister Wanda Gay of Texas, along with many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ruben Hirning, daughters, Doris Long, Anna Margaret Harmon, one sister and two brothers.

Viewing will be held one hour prior to the funeral services. Funeral service will be held Monday November 6, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Viegut Funeral Home, 1616 N. Lincoln Ave. Loveland Co. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens, 8426 US 287, Fort Collins, Co.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the care givers of Brookdale North Loveland, Seven Lakes Memory Care, and Bristol Hospice for the many years of exceptional and loving care.