Ernest "Ernie" Kreis

Ernest “Ernie” Kreis, 86, of Camillus, passed away Wednesday at Crouse Hospital. A lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, he attended Onondaga Central High School. Ernie was the owner and president of Ernie Kreis & Sons Heating Co., Inc., for 40 years and was in the HVAC industry for over 60 years. He enjoyed dirt racing and sponsored many race cars. He also enjoyed horse racing and owned pacers and trotter racehorses at Vernon Downs Racing.

Ernie was predeceased by his parents, Emil and Margaret Kreis; son; Jeffrey; and siblings, Herman Kreis, Irving Kreis, Helen Kelly, Edith "Honey" Galaska, Marjorie Gross, Viola Harris, Pauline Rusyniak, Carol Eipp, and Shirley Kilmer.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, the former Carolyn McDowell; daughter, Deborah Lockwood; daughter, Kathy Carapella; son, Philip "Randy"; daughter, Karen Johnston; son, Ernest; grandchildren, Melissa Sardella; Phillip and Shawn Kreis, Katelyn Hile, and Krista Johnston; great-granddaughters, Harley, Avery and Raegan Kreis; great-grandson, Carter Sardella; sister, Sandra Birmingham; canine-grandchildren, Bert and Zoey; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives and friends may call Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. A funeral service will immediately follow in the funeral home.

Ernie will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital, 750 E. Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210.