White Funeral Home
1315 Main Street
Jesup, Iowa 50648

JESUP – Quinn Justin Ernster, 52 years old, of Jesup, Iowa, died Thursday, February 12, 2026, at his home in Jesup, after a nearly year long battle with ALS and FTD.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m. – Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church in Jesup. Burial will be at a later date in Northwood, Iowa.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the White Funeral Home, Jesup. Visitation will continue for an hour before the services at the church on Thursday.

Quinn was born July 31, 1973, in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of Jerry Charles and Linda Lucille (Hansen) Ernster. He graduated from East High School in Waterloo with the class of 1991 and went on to Hawkeye Community College and graduated with a degree in Police Science. On May 14, 2016, he married Ashley (Athey) Hitchcock in Kensett, Iowa. Quinn worked as a truck driver, a profession that reflected his strong work ethic and independent nature.

Quinn’s love for hockey began at a young age and remained a defining part of his life. He grew up watching his dad play and at an early age, he too fell in love with the game. He played peewee hockey and continued through high school. In college he played for the University of Northern Iowa hockey team, and then moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, and played for the Las Vegas Royals. After moving back to the Waterloo area, he stayed active with recreational leagues both as a player and coach. He was known for his intensity, competitive spirit, and deep love for the game. He took immense pride in staying active, working out, and maintaining his physical strength.

Beyond hockey, Quinn’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband and a deeply loved stepfather to Brody and Kayden. Quinn shared a special bond with the boys, embracing every opportunity to spend time with them. Whether playing basketball and baseball, cheering them on from the stands, or heading to the river for fishing trips, Quinn created memories that will live on in their hearts forever. He took pride in teaching them, guiding them, and simply being there for them.

Quinn also loved the outdoors. Over the years, he spent a lot of time at the family’s cabin in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and getting the bonfires started.

Quinn will be remembered for his outgoing personality, his quick wit, and his ability to bring laughter into any room. He had a way of leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him and certainly on those who didn’t.

Quinn is survived by his wife, Ashley Ernster of Jesup, Iowa; two stepchildren, Brody Hitchcock and Kayden Hitchcock, both at home; his parents, Jerry and Linda Ernster of Waterloo, Iowa; one sister Autumn (Joey) Rolison and their children Creed Rolison and Steel Rolison, all of Jesup.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Minnie & Dutch Hanson; and paternal grandparents, Lyle & Myra Ernster.

A memorial fund has been established, and memorials may be directed to the family for organizations important to Quinn.

Online condolences may be placed at www.White-MtHope.com.
White Funeral Home, Jesup, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.