Richard Ernst

Richard “Dick” Holt Ernst, a spirited naval aviator, Harvard-educated businessman and adventurer with a witty intellect, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025. He was 93.

Born June 22, 1931, Dick was the third child of Frederick S. and Roberta Ernst. He grew up in Chestnut Hill and spent his summers in Jaffrey, New Hampshire, at Camp Monadnock — the boys camp founded by his father in 1914. There, inspired by Thoreau’s values and surrounded by nature, Dick developed a lifelong love of independence, the outdoors and mischievous adventure.

He attended Fessenden School and Milton Academy, graduated from Harvard College in 1953 and earned his MBA from the University of California-Berkeley in 1962. During the Korean War era, he served as a Navy carrier aviator, flying the F-8 Crusader from the Bon Homme Richard (CV-31). His vivid flying experiences later formed the heart of his memoir, “Highs and Lows.”

Originally from his parents’ home in Chestnut Hill, Dick later lived in Foxboro, Dover, Hopkinton and, most recently, Ashburnham. While his career was in marketing and sales throughout the early days of the tech industry, he was proud of a patent award for an invention, though he is best remembered today for his playful wit, warmth and timeless character.

Many of his favorite days were spent at a summer home on Nantucket Island, which became a cherished gathering place for his family. Summers were filled with sailing, surfcasting, playing tennis and driving jeeps to Great Point — a tradition his children and grandchildren continue.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Frederick (Ted) Ernst and Leila Veitch. He is survived by his children, Clayton, Katrina and Chip, as well as extended family and friends.

Burial was to be private. In lieu of flowers, take a walk on the beach or sail into the wind — just for the joy of it.

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