Ernest "Ernie" Luther Mensch, 81 years young, embarked on his final adventure March 16, 2015. Born June 19, 1934, in Denver, to Carl L. Mensch and Gladys Clark, Ernie also resided in Kirksville, Mo., Scottsdale, Ariz., and Las Vegas. He attended North High in Denver. He was an avid water-skier with best friend, Tommy Garin, and he loved to fish with the Preston gang. Ernie served in the U.S. Navy as a sailor on the USS Dealey. He was a member of the Kirksville Country Club and golfed in Las Vegas until his back screamed stop. He achieved many dreams, he was an artist, owned an apartment complex in Scottsdale, a sailboat in Hawaii, and driving a Cadillac. He worked as a printer and salesman for Burroughs Corp. Upon retirement, he bartended at Pogo's Tavern in Las Vegas so he could appreciate the view from the other side. As a member of a 12-step addiction recovery program, he was proud to be sober for 30 years. Ernie was respected and known for being there for the community. After marrying Mary Joanne Preston Farabee Feb. 7, 1959, he became a loving father to three daughters, Janalea "Jan" Crandy, Jaralynn "Jar" Dunne and Jackie Sue Ulrey. He was called "Poppy" by his grandchildren, Jon Paul Saunders, Jeni Setera, Megan Crandy, Roxanne and Brooke McKinley, Christopher and Brandon Dunne, and Michael and Ashton Ulrey. Ernie had one great-grandson, Benjamin Setera, and was excited to learn a second was on the way. Ernie was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Delbert; his only son, Martin Luther; and sons-in-law, Allen and Buddy. Ernie spent time with friends daily, they were his extended family. Everyone loved his wit and talent in telling a story and many cherished him as "Uncle Ernie." He was the calm in all our storms saying, "It will be OK," followed by his own version of a parable. Ernie's ability to listen and never judge was his gift to us and his love will be missed. Viewing will be 9-11 a.m. Saturday, March 21, with services following, both at Bunkers Mortuary, 925 Las Vegas Blvd. N. Reception following