Jean-Ernest LaBarre passed away on September 18, 2023, surrounded by family.  He was born on May 28, 1950, in Fort Benton to parents Alderic and Vincencia LaBarre.  He was the youngest child and first son in the family joining sisters Kathleen, Alderine, Marietta, and Lea.  Ernie graduated from Fort Benton High School and went to college in Bozeman where he met his wife and lifelong companion, Susan Barlow.  They were married on February 6, 1971, in Great Falls. They made their home in Fort Benton. There they raised four children Melissa, Jeremie, Angie, and Matthew.

Ernie worked for Fort Benton Schools for 27 years in the maintenance department and drove a school route bus. He retired in 2016.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Susan; daughter, Melissa (Joe) Martineau; son, Jeremie (Kay) LaBarre; daughter, Angie (Chad) Opitz; son, Matthew (Becky) LaBarre; grandchildren Isabelle, Julia, Hayden, Ella, Alderic, Michael, Derek, Breah, Olivia, Dawson, Braxton;  sisters, Marietta Kuka, Lea Haaland, and Kathleen Ayers.  Plus many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by father, Alderic; mother, Vincencia; sister, Alderine.  A private service and burial have been held.

Memorials are suggested to go to the Chouteau County Cancer Support Group, PO Box 213, Fort Benton, MT 59442.