Ronald Ernest Stano entered this world on Wednesday, February 4, 1948 in Moores Hill, Indiana to Lee and Pauline Stano. He departed this earthly realm on Sunday, July 13, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Edgewood, Kentucky. Known to friends as Ernie or “Big E,” he embraced life with a generous spirit, making every interaction meaningful and often leaving an indelible mark on those he met. His vibrant personality was matched only by his commitment to living life fully, earning him the status of a small-town legend.
Ernie’s unwavering work ethic and dedication to volunteerism shaped his life. He relished the joys of small-town living, forging lifelong friendships that became the foundation for countless cherished stories. After graduating from Dillsboro High School in 1966, he answered the call of duty, serving bravely in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969.
Returning home, he married his wife of 32 years, Merrilee, and together they celebrated the arrival of three daughters: Joan Darlene in 1972, Jill Dyan in 1976, and Jaclyn Denise in 1981. After a successful decade at Seagram’s Distillery, Ernie took a bold step into the trucking industry. Under the mentorship of his father-in-law Joe Libbert, he embarked on a remarkable 40-year journey with Baylor Trucking, covering over 4 million miles on the road from 1976 to 2013.
His active involvement in various fraternal organizations reflected his deep love for community and the desire to give back. His passion for American Legion Post 292 saw him dedicate countless hours, embodying the spirit of service. Known for his exceptional cooking, Ernie’s contributions to family and community gatherings were always met with heartfelt appreciation.
He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles of Aurora, Vietnam Veterans of America, a lifetime member of Milan VFW Post #6234, and belonged to Forty and Eight.
Other passions included regular golf outings, singing karaoke, hosting poker games, BBQ cookouts, gardening and social gatherings. Ernie cherished his family, friends and his beloved dog, Jasmine.
Ernie is survived by his devoted daughters: Joan Weaver of Greendale, Jill (Kristopher) Nelson of Richmond, Indiana, and Jaclyn Stano of Gainesville, Florida. His legacy lives on in his seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren: Joshua Weaver, Matthew (Emily) Weaver, Johannah Nelson, Theodore Nelson, Topher Nelson, Kailyn Stano, Ella Stano, Owen Weaver, and Willow Weaver.
Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Pauline Stano and his brother, Robert “Bob” Stano. He is also survived by his brother Donald “Al” Stano (Bonnie) of Dillsboro, Indiana.
Family and friends may gather in remembering Ernie from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM, Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Filter-DeVries-Moore Funeral Home in Dillsboro. Services will immediately follow at 12:00 PM, with Pastor Sherman Hughes officiating. Military rites will be provided by Dillsboro American Legion Post #292. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery. Memorials may be given in honor of Ernie to the Son’s of American Legion Scholarship Fund.
Filter-DeVries-Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements: 12887 Lenover St., PO Box 146, Dillsboro, IN 47018; (812) 432-5480. Please visit our website at www.filterdevriesmoore.com to share your condolences and memories of Ernie.