Richard EMMERT

MENDON, Ill. -- Richard Junior Emmert, 81, died Thursday morning (July 31, 2014) in his home near Mendon.

Mr. Emmert was born April 23, 1933, in Dallas City, to Richard Lowell and Lola Dietrich Emmert. He married Betty Koontz Emmert on Nov. 16, 1953, in Loraine.

He graduated from Unity High School in 1950. Mr. Emmert enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving from February 1953 to February 1957, attaining the rank of staff sergeant. He served at Air Force bases in Texas, New Mexico, Idaho and Nebraska.

After leaving the Air Force, he returned to Mendon to begin a career with the U.S. Postal Service. He served as a rural carrier in Adams County from 1958 until his retirement.

Richard Emmert's passions in life were God, Betty, his family, flying, enjoying nature, helping others, and transforming dilapidated houses into attractive, livable homes. Family and friends will forever remember his patience, persistence and quiet kindness.

Surviving are his wife, Betty Emmert, of Mendon; five children, Debora Emmert of Jacksonville, Fla., Kathryn Emmert Long (Steven) of Clermont, Fla., Lisa Emmert Bruenger (Randy) of Bloomington, Kim Emmert Edwards (Ron) of Quincy and Michael Richard Emmert of Quincy; four grandsons; four granddaughters; two great-granddaughters; two brothers; a sister; nieces and nephews; and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert.

SERVICES: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, in Madison Park Christian Church conducted by Pastor Larry Smith. A private interment will follow.

VISITATION: 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 4, in the Hunter Funeral Home, Mendon, and from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, in the church.

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Madison Park Christian Church, Sojourn Collegiate Ministry or LaMoine Christian Service Camp.

ARRANGEMENTS: Hunter Funeral Home, Mendon.

WEBSITE: www.hunterfh.com.

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