He was born on August 23, 1930, in Waterville, Kansas. Erv graduated from Hooper High School in Nebraska before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Navy, where he flew PBY aircraft out of Naval Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii, and Moffett Field, California. Following his honorable service, he joined the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department in 1958, beginning a distinguished 27-year career in law enforcement. He joined the department's K-9 unit and for many years he served alongside his K-9 partner, Iro. Erv also founded and led the department's SWAT team and later served as Rangemaster. He retired at the rank of Sergeant in 1985.
After retirement, Erv returned to his Nebraska roots, where he embraced the farming life and spent his days doing what he loved most - hunting, fishing, and giving back to his community. He was a devoted member of the Hooper VFW Post 10535, the Logan Valley Shooting Club, and many other local organizations.
Erv was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin B. and Elsie; his sisters, Janet and Lura; his daughter, Karen; and his stepdaughter, Debbie.
He is survived by his wife, Theresa; his sons, Glenn (Gina), Keith (Debra), and Robert (Catherine); his daughter, Tami (EJ); his stepdaughter, Julie; 16 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Hooper VFW Post 10535 or the Logan Valley Shooting Club.
The visitation will be Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at the Hooper Funeral Chapel with the family present from 4pm to 7pm. The funeral will be 10am, Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Immanuel Lutheran Church east of Winslow. Burial will follow in the Logan Cemetery with Military Honors by the Hooper and Uehling Honor Guard.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(4)
Mark Struthers
Byhalia, MS Tuesday, March 3, 2026 I first met Erv at the Hooper VFW. Before I knew it, I was the Quartermaster. He had a way about him. I learned a lot from Erv and admired him. He was a great man and always enjoyed his company. His was a life well lived.The Hatcher's
Honolulu, HI Thursday, February 19, 2026 To say “aloha” is not only to say goodbye, but also to express love, peace, and the enduring connection that remains. Ervin’s legacy lives on in the stories he shared, the lessons he taught. Though he part ways for now, his spirit, kindness, and memory will continue to surround us.Rest peacefully and thank you for your service, Sir.
Warren Vandersyde
Ten Mile, TN Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Erv was one of a kind who will never be replaced. I worked with and for Erv for many years with the San Mateo Sheriff's Office in California. Whether we were participating in events on the SWAT team or on Patrol, Erv was a born leader that one would follow anywhere and anytime. No questions asked! If there was ever a roll model in life, Larue was the man everyone admired and respected. Miss him already..Jim Jorgensen
Oakland, NE Friday, February 13, 2026 I worked with Erv for several years at FAMC in Fremont.I always enjoyed his stories since both of us were former Law Enforcement.
He was a true American he loved our country.
My boys enjoyed him as a Hunter Safety Instructor.
Erv you were a friend and will be truly missed and thought of often.