Emil Ernest (Ernie) Zintner, MSgt USAF Retired, of Hampton, was born into eternal life on June 9, 2021, sixteen days after celebrating his 104th birthday with family and friends. "Mr. Ernie" was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Caroline B. Zintner; a daughter, Joan McCary; and a son, Charles Zintner. He is survived by a daughter, Mary Zintner; a son-in-law, John McCary; and grandchildren: Rebecca McCary, Sarah McCary, Jason Zintner and Brandon Zintner.
Ernie was a WWII Veteran serving in the Air Force for 22 years. After "retirement" he worked an additional 17 years in Civil Service. Rounding out his work life, he enjoyed volunteering into his 90's at the VA Hospital and at the Clinic at Langley AFB. Even though he would probably not think of himself as a party person, Ernie enjoyed being around his older friends from the military and his neighbors who would stop by to visit. He also made new friends with the Visiting Physicians medical personnel and the staff of Grace Hospice.
A Visitation for family and friends will be held at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home, 245 S. Armistead Ave., Hampton, Va., on Wednesday, June 16, 2021, from 1 – 2 p.m., where a service will be held immediately at 2 p.m. Interment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens, 155 Butler Farm Road.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Ernie's memory to your favorite Veterans' Organization or other charity of your choice.