WALLINGFORD - Ernest R. Philippi, 95, loving husband of the late Norine (Wight) Philippi, died Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at Masonicare. He was born in Meriden on October 28, 1918, a son of the late Robert and Katherine (Pesco) Philippi. Ernest served in the US Army during WWII and was a Purple Heart recipient. He was a member of the DAV and was a Mason and Shriner. He loved spending his time traveling. Prior to his retirement he was the co-owner of Central Motor Supply in Wallingford. He is survived by his five children: Ernest Philippi and wife Joan of Florida, Carol Kearney and husband Thomas of Florida, Diana Paradise and husband John of Wallingford, Richard Philippi and wife Carol of Meriden, and Russell Philippi and wife Meg of Southington; a sister, Delores Smith of Illinois; 14 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; and 9 great, great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brothers Robert Philippi and Edwin Philippi and loving second wife Jessie (Gurney) Philippi, and very dear friend Doris Martin. Friends may call on Friday, June 27th from 4:00 - 6:00 PM at the B.C. Bailey Funeral Home, 273 South Elm St., Wallingford. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial in the Walnut Grove Cemetery in Meriden will be private.