Erwin F. Metzinger “Erv”

Born to Eternal Life on Friday, May 13, 2016 at age 89. Reunited with his loving wife Eleanor "Ellie" (nee Pichler). Loving father of Carol (Chris) Tabat, Scott (Judee) Metzinger, Sue (Mitch) Colegrove, Joan (Robert) Stevenson and Rob (Dawn) Metzinger. Cherished grandfather of 15 and great-grandfather of 3. Further survived by other relatives and many friends from Wisconsin and Arkansas and the Village at Manor Park Community.

Erv was born in Chicago and moved to rural Butternut, Wisconsin, when he was just 12 years old. He lived in a farmhouse without electricity or running water and no indoor plumbing.

He was married to Ellie in 1954, losing her to cancer in 2006, after 51 years of marriage. They lived in the Milwaukee area where Erv worked very hard to support five children, many years working two jobs. In 1994, they retired to Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas. Their home overlooked the golf course where they enjoyed many rounds of golf each week. He served as an alderman on the city council, volunteered at St. Mary of the Mount Catholic Church, and enjoyed playing cards and spending time with close friends.

He moved into the Village at Manor Park (VMP) in West Allis, Wisconsin in 2007, with a strong independent spirit. He developed his artistic side by learning to paint, which brought him much joy. He was always busy and involved in many activities including ceramics, gardening, Sheepshead club and advocating for residents as a dedicated member of the VMP Council. He always wanted to help others, bringing a smile to many with his great sense of humor.

He will be remembered for his creativity, generosity, sparkling blue eyes and strong devotion to the church, admiring St. Anthony as his patron saint. Although his hand wasn't the steadiest, you would not know that by looking at his paintings.

He will be greatly missed by his friends and family but he truly lived a fulfilling life. He leaves a wonderful legacy for his five children, fifteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Gathering will be at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, WI on Sunday, May 22, 2016 from 3:00PM – 5:45PM, with a Vigil at 6:00PM. Additional gathering at Saint Matthais Parish, 9306 West Beloit Road, on Monday, May 23, 2016 from 9:00AM -9:45AM, with a Memorial Mass at 10:00AM. Burial at Highland Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to Saint Matthias Parish or to the Alzheimer's Association of Southeastern Wisconsin.