Ernest Melvin Krieger

The sudden and unexpected death of Ernest Melvin Krieger, 77 years, of Jansen occurred on Monday, May 5, 2025.  Ernest was born on July 8, 1947 in Wynyard to Roy and Hilda (nee Rucks) Krieger.  He grew up on the family farm in the Esk/Jansen area, one of 14 children.  Ernest attended school at Bieberdorf, Esk and Lanigan.  At an early age, he worked for other area farmers and spent time building roads in the RM, operating a cat and track hoe.  Ernest began farming on his own and then in 1971 began a 32-year career at the Lanigan Potash Mine.  Most of his time there was also spent operating heavy equipment.  Ernest loved the outdoors, enjoying hunting, fishing and camping.  He never liked to sit idle so kept busy tinkering and inventing things to make his life easier.  He and Linda even built their own camper from scratch.  He loved cutting firewood; he could work at it all day and still have a smile on his face.  Ernest loved driving around the countryside, dropping in on family and friends for a visit.  He will be remembered for his big heart by his family and friends.  Ernest will be sadly missed by his wife Linda Medernach of Jansen; two sons, one step daughter, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren:  Lorne Krieger (Chelsea Lockie) of Viscount and family Megan Krieger Pavelich (Jeremy) and children Kaydence and Carson, and Sawyer Lockie; Jeff (Cheryl) Schmidt of Langham and children Devin and Jordyn; Clarice Medernach of Saskatoon; siblings:  Edward Krieger, Arnold (Donna) Krieger, Erwin Krieger, Wilburn (Doreen) Krieger, Ann Bendig, Margaret Meeley and Mildred Gibb; and sister-in-law Gail Krieger.  He was predeceased by his parents, Roy and Hilda Krieger; son Travis Schmidt; siblings:  Leonard (Alma) Krieger, Neil Krieger, Virden (Evelyn) Krieger, Lorne Krieger, Phyllis (Jim) Funk and Rose Ellis; and in-laws:  Lois Krieger, Isabel Krieger, Clarence Bendig, Wilfred Meeley and Gary Gibb.  The Funeral Service for Ernest was held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, Jansen, officiated by Deacon Jack Robson.  Interment followed in the Esk North Cemetery.  Memorial donations in Ernest’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Kidney Foundation.