Ernest Gourneau, age 37, of Belcourt, ND passed peacefully at Trinity Hospital in Minot, ND on Thursday, March 16, 2023 surrounded by his best friends, Feather Belgarde, Sandra Day, cousins Jennifer and Julie Wilkie.

Ernest Lee "Fuji" Gourneau was born on January 14, 1986 in Minot, ND to Henry Gourneau Sr. and Anita (Longie) Gourneau.  He was raised in Belcourt and completed his education at Belcourt High School, furthering his education at college for two years.  Ernest was the proud father of four children, Weston, Norrah, Aven, and Shyann.  He was a "jack of all trades" and worked various jobs.  Ernest enjoyed going to the casino and fishing. He also was an avid Vikings fan and loved listening to his old school music. His family and friends loved his wonderful sense of humor and jokes.  He fought a hard battle while loving and enjoying his family and his friends.  Ernest will be forever remembered and greatly missed.

Ernest is survived by his children, Weston (Taylee Poitra) Gourneau of Belcourt, Norrah (Seth DuBois) Gourneau of Belcourt, Aven Gourneau of Belcourt, and Shyann Gourneau of West Fargo; siblings, Henry Gourneau Jr. of Belcourt, Gail (Ryan) Wickerham of Belcourt, and Charles (Desiree) Gourneau of Williston; and nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Sr. and Anita Gourneau, brother, James Bruce, and cherished nephew, Noah Gourneau.

Funeral Services will begin at 5:00 PM on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Fiddler's Hall, Belcourt, ND and conclude with a meal on Friday, March 24, 2023 at Fiddler's Hall, Belcourt, ND.  Burial will take place in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery, Belcourt, ND in the spring.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.