I was invited to the Massey events in 2012 by Kerry English and Dave Nicole. In attending some of these events, I got to know a super interesting group of people, the former Massey Ferguson employees. Ernie was no exception to this and I was introduced to him and consequently had the opportunity to do an extensive interview with him. Part of the information derived from him resulted in an article in Legacy magazine. It was about hauling prototype combines all over North America, an experience that numerous other Massey employees shared. He was held in high regard by the Engineering staff for his skills in the shop, sheet metal work, on the road, and in the field. Ernie was a quiet, unassuming, friendly person and like other former Massey employees, had a phenomenal memory for details of events long ago. For example, he started at the Test Track on February 10th,1952 driving a tractor pulling a seeder over frozen plowed ground at -10 degrees F. He told about driving to California hauling a combine on Route 66 before the super highways were built and couldn't get the truck over 45mph because of the strong southwest wind that blew every day. There is a road named Gough just east of Warden and Ernie said that it was named after the Gough family who had owned a farm on the southwest corner of Steeles and Warden before they were squeezed out by urban development. Sam Gough was a former Massey Ferguson Farm Director. Of course, Ernie grew up close to this area and knew it well. Ernie had a great repertoire of stories to tell and could entertain you for hours on end. He will be missed by all who knew him. My sympathy to the Smith family.
The photo was taken in 2013 at his home on Steeles Avenue during my interview with him.
Remembering and celebrating a kind gentle Grandfather and Father in law. His patience was seemingly limitless when he held his Grandkids on his lap and read to them when they were little. The twinkle in his eye when he smiled and laughed, his whole face would light up. A man of integrity, steadfastness and depth. His legacy lives on in his Grandkids. Lovingly remembered by Pauline, Kaya, Amos, Levi, Gideon, Imogen and Asher
Dear Lloyd, David and Families - my deepest condolences on the passing of your amazing Dad, Ernie. I worked with Ernie in Massey Field Test and learnt so much from him, especially on how to truck wide loads around North America. Then I enjoyed many a social Massey event with Ernie over the years. He was a very humble, decent and smart man and was very well respected wherever Massey travels took him. Take care and all the best going forward.
