Ernst A. Grab

Ernst A. Grab, 92, of Southington, formerly of Bristol where he spent many years, entered eternal rest peacefully at home on Friday, June 12, 2026, with his family by his side.
Ernie, as he was affectionately known, was born on June 9, 1934 in Queens, New York, son to the late Anton and Elsa (Dawer) Grab. Early in life, he met the love of his life, Grace (Miceli), and together they shared an extraordinary 66 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, adventure, and devotion. They especially enjoyed dancing together, with Ernie delighting in twirling Grace across the dance floor. Their journey together took them from New York to New Jersey and eventually to Connecticut, where they built a loving home, raised their family, and took great pride in watching future generations grow and flourish.
Ernie dedicated more than 35 years of his career to the HVAC industry, ultimately retiring as manager of Joseph Simons Company. He was respected for his strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to his profession.
Blessed with a natural artistic talent, Ernie found joy in expressing himself through freehand sketching. He especially loved drawing lighthouses, tranquil landscapes, and scenes from nature, creating artwork that family and friends treasure. His creativity extended beyond drawing to an appreciation of abstract art and crafting with wood. Some of his happiest moments were spent crafting projects alongside his grandchildren, sharing his talents, encouraging their creativity, and creating lasting memories together.
A quiet, humble, and remarkably patient man, Ernie carried himself with kindness and grace. His faith was a guiding force throughout his life, and he faithfully wore his crucifix necklace as a reflection of his deep religious devotion. He found simple pleasures in tending to his yard, where marigolds bloomed under his care, and he remained a loyal and enthusiastic fan of the Oakland Raiders throughout the years.
Above all else, Ernie was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. He cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, taking immense pride in their accomplishments and milestones. His gentle spirit, steadfast love, artistic gifts, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family and friends.
In addition to his wife, Grace (Miceli) Grab, Ernie is survived by his sons, Anthony Grab and his wife, Lise, of Wolcott, and Ernest Grab and his wife, Lisa, of Manchester; his daughters, Phyllis Grab, of Bristol, and Susan Matyoka, of Terryville; 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; his brother-in-law, Hank Schaeffer, of New York; and many brothers and sisters-in-law on the Miceli side of the family. He was predeceased by his sister, Elsie Schaeffer.
Family and friends are welcome to gather on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM at the Church of Saint Matthew, 120 Church Avenue, Bristol, CT 06010. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ernst may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org). For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

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