Obituary of Carl T. Ernstrom

Ernstrom, Carl T. 12/1/37 - 3/29/14 Supported by the love and respect of family and many dear friends, Carl died peacefully on March 29, 2014. He is predeceased by his parents, James P. and Helen T. Ernstrom; father-in-law, Paul Chirumbolo; and his beloved Airedales Thatcher, Kirby and Teddy. He is survived by his loving wife and partner of 39 years, Rita; mother-in-law, Lena Chirumbolo; daughter, Sue Roberts and husband Greg; son, Bill and wife Janie Hanson; grandchildren, Chad and Shane Roberts, Sophia, Celia, and Jack Ernstrom; brother, Bill Ernstrom; brothers-in-law, Jim Chirumbolo and wife Joanne, Paul Chirumbolo; sister-in-law, Pat Chirumbolo and her husband Dana Barvinchak; the nephews and nieces who know Carl as "UC" and deemed him like the Dos Equis man, "the most interesting man in the world," and the best person one could ever have as an uncle: Jim Chirumbolo McKee, Chris, Mike, and Matt Chirumbolo, Carly, Ellie, and Andre Barvinchak, David, Greg, and Kate Ernstrom, and Zach Bowen. A graduate of Afton High School and Harpur College, Carl went on to start from scratch his own insurance agency, Ernstrom Associates, watching it grow and continue on even after not owning it anymore. He developed a series of business partners that became and remained close friends. Client relationships, too, meant true friendships. Friendships were a measure of his success to him. Holding local, regional, and national positions within the professional associations of the insurance industry, he was a leader, educator, and mentor to many within the profession as well. His community contributions known and unknown could fill a page, yet Carl's request was to simply express these words: "I've had the opportunity to work with many, many meaningful organizations and learn about the service they provide to their respective communities. Both the Broome County YMCA and the Binghamton University Foundation are near and dear to my heart. It really has been a great life!" Special thanks to Kristen Lewis, FNP, Dr. Nick Stamato and Mary, Dr. Linda Fort and Dee for their never-ending care, support, accessibility, and friendship. Memorial services will be held at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main St., Binghamton, Thursday at 10 a.m. The family will receive friends at the McCormack Funeral Home Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Youth Activities at the Broome Co. YMCA, 61 Susquehanna St., Binghamton, NY 13901 or Binghamton University Foundation.