Ernest Flink

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the unexpected passing of Ernest W. Flink on April 2, 2023. Whether you called him Ernie, E.B., Doc, Dad, Pops, or Papa, he left a legacy of love, laughter, and terrible jokes. He was the pillar of our family and an amazing role model to everyone who crossed his path. He had a passion for life, his career, his family, and, most certainly, for the love of his life, soulmate, and best friend, Robin. His wisdom guided those around him and he showed up anytime his family and friends needed him whether it was for life advice, a helping hand, or a run for ice cream. He was a man who could fill any space with his presence but also allowed others to be seen, heard, and valued.

Ernie was born in Missoula on August 15, 1946 to William and Doris Flink and was preceded in death by his parents and sister Stephanie Murphy. Pursuing a career in education and earning a doctorate degree, Ernie’s career took him to Washington, Colorado, New Hampshire, and then back to Colorado where he retired from a 35+ year career guiding young people and impacting countless lives. Following his retirement from Douglas County Schools, a new opportunity took Ernie and Robin to Hawaii where Ernie rediscovered his love for counseling and found a new love for swimming in the ocean and watching the whales. However, Colorado was where Ernie’s heart resided and they returned here to help raise their grandchildren who were the joy of his life. Ernie could be found traveling with Robin, working in his backyard masterpiece, visiting with friends, championing his children, or delivering “words of wisdom” to his grandchildren. He was always one silly joke from an “Oh, Papa” and an eye roll every time he opened his mouth.

Similar to Ernie, this obituary could go on forever. Trying to capture this man in words is nearly impossible. His influence, his quick wit, his incredible intelligence, his dedication to friends and family, and his sensitive heart made him unforgettable. Ernie’s greatest pride was convincing Robin to be in this with him for over 50 years, his children’s impeccable ability to use the “F” word, and the “dad jokes” his grandchildren will be able to rattle off for years to come.

It is without a doubt, and those of you who knew him best would agree, that Ernie passed away on his “best looking day.”

He is survived by his wife, Robin Flink, and his son Brandon Flink, daughter-in-law Kelly Flink, daughter Kersten F. Mullan, son-in-law Brian Mullan, three grandchildren Brady Mullan, Makenna Flink, Keagan Mullan, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ernie’s legacy will be celebrated during an Open House on May 13th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at The Inn (the old North Woods Inn Restaurant) at The Hudson Gardens and Event Center located at 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, CO 80120. Attire is jeans and a comfortable shirt because Ernie wouldn’t want it any other way.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a donation to the Pacific Whale Foundation at pacificwhale.org .

Please share memories and condolences with Ernie's family by signing the Tribute Wall.