Ernst Leonard Kordgien

Ernst Leonard Kordgien, known affectionately as Ernie or ‘“Ole Chicken Legs”, passed away on October 11, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida. He was born on October 4, 1947, in Somerville, New Jersey, to Elsa and Gunther Kordgien.

Ernie grew up on a farm, an upbringing that instilled in him a lifelong love of agriculture, and he continued raising livestock and gardening throughout his life. He attended the University of Florida and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. He started his teaching career as a science teacher and football coach in Williston, a community he said he chose because he thought it was welcoming and extremely beautiful with Oak trees that lined Main Street. He then served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps and later returned to UF to complete his Master’s in Educational Leadership. He met and married the love of his life, Annette, through his barber who also happened to be her father. A devoted educator, he retired from Levy County School District after nearly 40 years of service to the students, parents, and teachers in those communities, always believing that students should be the focal point of every decision made in a school.

Honest, fair, and intelligent, Ernie was a man of integrity, courage, and compassion who never wavered in his commitment to doing what he believed was right. He was also warm and funny, loyal and hardworking. A diehard Gator fan, he loved all sports and cherished teaching his children about history and science. He was a founding member of the Rotary Club of Williston, a Little League Baseball Couch, a Guardian Ad Litem, an avid supporter of the Arc of Levy County, a UF Gator Booster, and a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church of Williston.

He is survived by his loving wife, Annette Kordgien; his son, Jonathan Kordgien, and grandchildren, Joshua, Kaleigh, and Kaydence; his daughter, Jennifer Rose Morgenthal, and grandchildren, Royce, Reese, and Rose; and his sisters, Rosemarie Robuck and Linda Asbell, along with his nieces and nephews, Dawn, Tiffany, Lauren, and Derrick.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gunther and Elsa Kordgien, brother-in-law, Bud Asbell, and his son-in-law, Ryan Morgenthal.

Ernie leaves behind cherished memories for family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Ernie’s life was marked by connections and experiences that touched those around him. Though he is no longer with us, the moments shared, the laughter, and the support he offered will continue to resonate. All who knew Ernie will carry forward his memory in their hearts.

In lieu of flowers send donations to The Arc of Levy County d/b/a Tri County Arc.

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6pyjyv7xz9mue

May he rest in the eternal peace of the Lord.

Quiet, Steady – A Poem for My Dad

He never needed praise or fame,

Or recognition for his name.

With quiet strength and steady hands,

He gave us roots on which to stand.

Through every storm and darkest night,

His love and wisdom were our light.

And in the lives we live each day,

A part of him will always stay.

– JKM