Ervin J. Plihal was born in Lincoln on December 31, 1940 to Joseph and Matilda (Kubes) Plihal and passed away on October 17 after a short stay at the Wilber Care Center. He grew up on a farm west of Wilber, attending rural school at District #51 and graduating from Wilber High School with the class of 1958, where he participated in football, basketball, and was a member of the local FFA chapter. Ervin and his Mom moved to town in 1955, after the passing of his father, but forever missed the farm life.

Ervin started working at the Wilber Coop Elevator right out of high school, and was employed there for 55 years. He enlisted in the United States Army in October of 1963 and attended boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. After a short time at Fort Hood, Texas, Ervin was sent on to Germany, where he spent 16 months. He loved his time in the military, and after his service he joined the American Legion Louis-Milan Post 101 in Wilber, and was a member for 55 years.

Ervin was a dedicated volunteer firefighter for 40 years, from 1966-2006. He loved bowling, belonging to several teams over 20 years. Gardening, raising chickens, and walking the pastures for volunteer trees and thistles were his hobbies, along with his favorite, cutting firewood for his beloved wood cook stove.

He is survived by many nephews and nieces: David (Judy) Koll, Kenneth (Doris) Koll, Alan (Jen) Koll, Dennis (Mary Ann) Filipi, Neal (Carolyn) Pavlish, Pat (Jack) Ross, Kathy (Jerry) Wills, Kim Cox, Christine Koll, and Marlene (Scott) Lentfer.

Preceding him in death are his parents, brother Elmer (Edna) Koll, sisters Mildred (Edward) Pavlish and Berniece (Elmer) Filipi, nephews Duane Pavlish and Don Pavlish, and nieces Nancy Liska and Nyla Pavlish.

Services will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber.  Visitation will be on Monday from 5 - 7 PM at the funeral home. Memorials have been designated to the Wilber Volunteer Fire Department. Arrangements entrusted to Kuncl Funeral Home in Wilber.