Ernest J Durand, Jr.

Ernest J. Durand Jr. passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a long-term battle against illness.

Born and raised in Manchester, NH, Ernie graduated from Central High School in 1980 and immediately enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17. Following his service, he joined the Manchester Fire Department and dedicated 26 and a half years protecting residents in his hometown community. During that time, he also owned and operated Friendly Fibers Carpet Cleaning. A hard-working man, Ernie was determined to always single-handedly provide for his family.

Ernie, or as his friends would affectionally call him, “Budnik,” was always described as “the man who would give you the shirt off his back in the middle of a snowstorm.” At his core, Ernie was selfless. He was happy to help his neighbors, friends, family, or strangers with anything they needed—whether they asked for it or not. Acts of service was his love language and he gave it freely.

Ernie was a man of many talents. A self-described, “backyard mechanic,” Ernie prided himself on his ability to fix anything with his own two hands. He could often be found tinkering on his cars or changing oil, brakes, and lights for others in his driveway. Known for his “Ernie burgers,” he was also an avid home chef who enjoyed serving his dishes to his brothers on the fire department, his family, and his neighbors. He loved sharing his cooking philosophy with anyone who would listen: “Let the taste of the food speak for itself.” He also enjoyed doing various home projects, yard work, and spending time with his beloved dog, Chocolate.

Throughout his life, Ernie collected many treasures including bottle caps, fire department memorabilia, and numerous flea market “steals.” Most impressive of all was his hubcap collection. Ernie began collecting hubcaps in his youth and continued until his last walking day on this Earth. In his collection he boasted having rare finds including the hubcap of a retired Manchester fire engine.

Ernie is survived by several loved ones including his adoring wife of 14 years, Teresa M. Durand and his four children, Cassandra R. Durand of Manchester, NH, Ernest J. Durand III of South Berwick, ME, Starr E. Durand of Hephzibah, GA, and Jared T. Durand of Tacoma, WA. He is also survived by his mother, brother, and sisters along with countless friends and veteran brothers and sisters. He is predeceased by his beloved father, Ernest Durand Sr and the mother of his children and dear friend, Candace Bouchard.

Ernie will be deeply missed by all those who were blessed to have him touch their hearts. Rest easy, Budnik. Your legacy will live on.

A visitation will be held in Ernie’s memory at Lambert’s Funeral Home, 1799 Elm St., Manchester, NH 03104 on Tuesday March 18th between 3pm and 7pm. His funeral services will take place at St. Jude Church, 433 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry, NH at 9:30am on Wednesday March 19th. Burial will be private. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to one of the following organizations:

Veteran’s Affairs: www.cdceportal.va.gov

International Fire Fighters Association Foundation: https://donate.iaff.org

Dartmouth Hitchcock of NH: www.dhgeiselgiving.org

Elliot Hospital: https:  https://elliothospital.org

Visiting Nurses Association of Manchester: https://manchestervna.org

Southern New Hampshire or Farnum Center: https://farnumcenter.org