Obituary of Ernest F Nurge Jr.

Born in 1926, Ernest F. Nurge, Jr., grew up in Queens Village as an only child. By his early teens, his family rooted themselves in Hempstead, which is where he continued to hone his baseball pitching skills. He played in the Nassau Alliance League and even showcased his talents in the Nassau/Suffolk All Star Game. Some of his many impressive outings included striking out a total of 23 batters in just one game. He clearly had a wicked fastball. At age 17, Ernest attended a baseball tryout located in Freeport and the Philadelphia Phillies quickly took notice. They were interested in signing him but unfortunately WW2 was ramping up and they soon realized he would be drafted into the military, so it never came to fruition. Shortly thereafter, Ernest entered the United States Army on December 19, 1944 and promptly completed artillery training on the Howitzer. He was then assigned all of his gear with the intention of being shipped overseas for combat. Just 5 days before his departure, his orders were halted. His luck continued as the war was starting to wind down and he got to remain stateside. He was assigned the position of truck driver at the base and with his all American good looks, was selected to drive the Captain in a couple of local parades in North Carolina. While serving in the Army, Ernest played baseball leading his team to many victories over semi-pro teams which at times, earned him special dinners at the Officers Club. Upon an honorable discharge, he was once again a desirable baseball prospect and was quickly picked up but this time, by the New York Giants. He signed a contract to play on their semi-pro team with the promise that he would be based in Maryland. Figuring he could easily get back to New York to see his folks, he accepted. He had already been away from home for almost 2 years and as a dutiful son, it was important for him to return home on days off. After completing spring training in Florida, the Giants instead assigned him to a team in the deep south where he found himself in the depths of prejudice (which was quite foreign and disturbing to him). Life as a baseball player back then was certainly not glamorous and the pay was pitiful. He was constantly on the road traveling in rickety buses and staying at undesirable motels. It didn't take long before Ernest made the decision to give up on playing ball and instead, head back home to get on with his life. A few years later, he partnered with a friend to start an automobile seat covering business in Franklin Square which called on car dealerships. One day, his childhood friend grabbed a few co-workers and headed over to see Ernie at his place of business. It was that day he met his future bride-to-be Connie. They married 1 ½ years later and eventually settled in Merrick where he lived for 68 years and they raised their three children- Ernest III, Eric and Kimberley. Ernest was always an honorable family man. In 1955 he had his first child on the way and coupled with a new home, he chose more stable employment in NYC at a publication distribution company. He worked his way up to management and stayed at that organization for over 34 years. He was the epitome of "Steady Eddie". You could always set your watch to him. In his 50's, 60's and 70's, he was fortunate to travel extensively throughout the world, always with his bride Connie by his side. Cruises to various destinations and organized tours with various friends and family became a favorite pastime. He also enjoyed many mini getaways to Atlantic City and sought out his favorite slot machines while staying at the Borgata. Clearly, Ernest was a good family man but his warmth and friendly nature drew everyone in. He had a great sense of humor and was always quick witted with a smile. Both people and pets were drawn to him and for good reason. He exuded kindness and treated everyone with respect. He was certainly a one of a kind gentleman that was dearly loved. He touched so many lives in his 97 years and will be sorely missed by many. Ernest and Connie celebrated 66 years of marriage until her departure in 2020. Not a day went by without him thinking of her but now they are together again for eternity. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Ernest Nurge Jr.'s honor to: Good Shepherd Hospice/Development Department 110 Bi-County Blvd Suite 114 Farmingdale, NY 11735 Call 631-465-6350 to pay by credit card or request donation envelope EIN Number: 112958438