Minerd.com Biography of Lafayette Emerick and Wives Mary Clites and Emma Johnson Thomas of Fairhope, PA and Helmer, IN

Home

Lafayette Emerick
(1847-1944)

Lafayette Emerick (or "Emrick") was born on Jan. 6, 1847 in Southampton Township, Somerset County, PA, the son of Jonathan and Rachel (Sturtz) Emerick Sr. His birth took place on the old homestead of his grandparents, Andrew and Christina (Heller) Emerick and was recorded in the papers of St. Luke's Lutheran Church of Cumberland, MD.

As a boy, he learned how to operate his father's sawmill, gristmill and fuller mill.

Lafayette was twice wed. His first wife was Mary Clites (1845-1899), who was three years older. She was the daughter of Samuel and Sarah Ann (Shroyer) Clites.

Their seven known children were Martha Ellen Shroyer, Sarah Cordilla Mills, Levi Franklin "Frank" Emerick, Charles Emerick, George Emerick, Effie Geneva "Nettie" Shaffer and Russell Calvin Emerick.

Fairhope, Lafayette's home circa 1910

They were longtime farmers. Circa 1879, Lafayette and his brothers, Gaumer cousins and others helped erect a new house of worship for the community, known as Comp's Lutheran and Reformed Church.

In 1880, the Emricks lived in Southampton Township, also providing a home for Lafayette's aging parents and his 56-year-old unmarried brother Nathan. In 1880, they lived next to Lafayette's married brother John and sister Mary E. Emerick and their families.

Tragedy rocked the family in about 1899 when Mary, age 56, is said to have been struck by a bolt of lightning and died. Her remains were placed into rest in the Comp's Cemetery in Southampton Township.

As a widower, Lafayette eventually moved a short distance north to the town of Fairhope, Somerset County. He purchased a home near the Fairhope Church. After some years alone, he married again, to Emma Johnson Thomas (March 1878-1956), reputedly an immigrant from Sweden.

In 1911, they produced one son, Gilbert Emerick.

Lafayette was named in the 1913 Meyersdale Republican obituary of his brother Nathan as living in Glen Savage, Somerset County.

Lafayette and his youngest son Gilbert relocated to Indiana. They sold their property in Allegheny Township for $800 and then purchased in 1928 a residence in Helmer, Stueben County, said to have been a mile northwest of town on the South Milford Road. His nephew George W. Emerick also owned a farm in Helmer about a mile east of Lafayette's.

Helmer, Indiana, Lafayette's home in later years

Lafayette died in Gilbert's home two days after his 97th birthday on Jan. 8, 1944. Interment was in the Wright Cemetery in Hudson, Steuben County. An obituary in the Angola (IN) Herald noted that funeral services were held in the United Brethren Church in Helmer, officiated by Rev. M.E. Burkett.

Evidence suggests that Emma spent her final years in Canton, Stark County, OH and died there on June 7, 1956.

~ Daughter Martha Ellen (Emerick) Shroyer ~

Daughter Martha Ellen Emerick (1868-1941) was born on March 27, 1868 in Kennels Mill, Somerset County.

Circa 1896, she married Silas Walter Shroyer (April 1864-1931), son of Joseph and Catherine Ann (Smith) Shroyer.

They were longtime farmers in Fairhope, Somerset County and together produced these known children -- Clara Emerick Burley, Nettie Smith, Elmer D. Shroyer, Cora Ellen Beal, Mamie Hurt, Joseph Adam Shroyer and Raymond Shroyer.

The federal census enumeration of 1900 indicates that Silas' occupation at the time was as a brickyard laborer.

By 1910, census records show that Silas now worked as a shoemaker in their home, while son Elmer was a railroad laborer.

During the decade of the 1910s, and into 1920, Silas was hired to deliver mail by the U.S. Postal Service.

Sadly, Silas passed away at age 68 in Fairhope on May 28, 1931. The deputy coroner wrote: "Had suffered with asthma and dropsy for a number of years. For the past month limbs were so swollen he was unable to walk. Which would indicate dropsy caused his death." The Bedford Gazette published an obituary, saying he was a "prominent farmer of Fairhope" and that funeral services were led by Rev. T.W. Evans of Hyndman. The remains were placed into repose in the Madley Cemetery near Hyndman, Bedford County.

Martha Ellen outlived him by a decade. In later years, suffering from heart disease and hardening of the arteries, she made her home with her married daughter Clara Shroyer in Fairhope. Martha Ellen died at the age of 73 on July 19, 1941. An obituary was printed in the Cumberland (MD) Sunday Times.

Son Elmer Shroyer (1889- ? ) was born in April 1889. In 1910, at the age of 21, in 1910, he earned a living as a railroad laborer. He was united in matrimonial union with Araminta (Quick) Baker (Feb. 6, 1876-1923), who was a dozen years older than the groom. The daughter of Frank H. and Susan (Baughman) Quick of Maryland. Araminta brought a stepson into the second marriage, Frank O. Baker. The couple went on to bear a son of their own, Henry Weller Shroyer. They made a home together in Fairhope. Sadness cascaded over the family when Araminta, who had suffered for three years with heart valve insufficiency, died at the age of 46 on Jan. 16, 1923. A short notice of her passing was printed in the Meyersdale Republican. Interment of the remains was in Comps Church Cemetery. Evidence hints that he may have married a second time to Allie Jordan Cook, and that they separated by November 1926. Elmer remained in Fairhope in 1931 at the death of his father. His fate is not yet known.

Somerset County
Memorial Park

Step-grandson Frank O. Baker (1903-1968) was born on April 27, 1903 in Fairhope, Somerset County. He wedded Florence Shaulis ( ? - ? ). Together, they produced three offspring -- Mrs. Elbert Walker, Franklin Baker and Edward C. Baker. Frank and Florence made their home on East Catherine Street in Somerset. He was employed as a railroader and was a member of the Brotherhood of Engineers and Trainmen union. The family belonged to Somerset Church of the Brethren. Frank died at the age of 64, on March 20, 1969, as a patient in Somerset Community Hospital. The Somerset Daily American published an obituary. Rev. Paul White presided over the funeral, with burial following in Somerset County Memorial Park.

Great-granddaughter (?) Baker married Elbert Walker and made a home in Friedens, Somerset County.

Great-grandson Franklin Baker dwelled in Somerset in 1968.

Great-grandson Edward C. Baker made his residence in 1968 in Somerset.

Grandson Henry Weller Shroyer (1913-1985) was born on Dec. 7, 1913 in Fairhope. While a young man, he earned a living at the Ferner Hotel Grille. Henry served in the U.S. Army during World War II, training at Fort Riley, KS, Camp Ibis, CA and Camp Polk, LA, assigned to the 9th Armored Engineers. On May 1, 1944, while on leave, he entered into marriage with Ida Fanale ( ? - ? ), daughter of Vincent Fanale of Quecreek, Somerset County. The nuptials were held in St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church of Somerset, and officiated by Rev. Fr. Albert Gartland. In announcing the marriage, the Somerset Daily American said that the bride "wore a gown of white brocaded satin, with fitted bodice and long full skirt ending in a train. The basque waist had a sweetheart neckline and long fitted sleeves, ending in points over the hand. A finger tip veil was caught with a half-wreath of tiny white orange blossoms." The family lived in Ida's hometown of Quecreek. Three children born into this family were Rose Marie Shaffer, James A. Shroyer and a son who died in infancy. His occpuation was mining coal, and he worked for Saxman Coal and Coke Company. Henry held a membership in the Somerset Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Samuel Crouse Post of the American Legion, the latter named in memory of Henry's distant cousin, killed during World War I, of the family of Samuel and Lydia (Sturtz) Boyer Sr. The family belonged to St. Peter's Church. Henry died in Somerset Community Hospital at age 71 on July 5, 1985. His funeral mass was sung at the family church, led by Rev. Samuel J. Tomaselli. Burial of the remains was in Somerset County Memorial Park, and an obituary appeared in the Daily American.

Great-granddaughter Rose Marie Shroyer married Alan Shaffer. Their home in 1985 was in Berlin, Somerset County.

Great-grandson James A. Shroyer wedded Sally Swank. They dwelled in Quecreek in 1985.

Daughter Cora Ellen Shroyer (1894-1937) was born on June 29, 1894 (or 1890). She was united in matrimony with Charles "Oscar" Beal (1881- ? ), son of Nancy Beal. Their brood of children were Evelyn Wyper, George Beal and Emerson J. Beal. The Beals resided in Colver, a coal mining village in Cambria County, PA, constructed by Eastern Coal Company. They are known to have dwelled there in 1930-1937, with Oscar employed as a pumpman in the mine. Having been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 1930, and heart valve problems in 1933, she endured her ailments for several years. Death swept her away into eternity at the age of 47 on Aug. 9, 1937. Interment of the remains was in Sipesville, Somerset County, in the cemetery adjoining Christ Casebeer Lutheran Church. Said the Meyersdale Republican, among those attending the funeral service were Mr. and Mrs. Henry Smith, Pearl V. Emerick, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Shroyer and family, and Clara and Raymond Shroyer. The widowed Oscar eventually migrated to Oil City, PA. Toward the end, he went to live in the Ebensburg Nursing Home near Johnstown, PA. Sadly, he died there on Aug. 13, 1966. An obituary in the Franklin (PA) News-Herald reported that funeral services were led by Rev. Robert Cessena with burial in the Christ Casebeer cemetery. The headcount of his survivors included three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Granddaughter Evelyn Beal (1915- ? ) was born in about 1915. She wedded William Wyper ( ? - ? ). The couple settled in Baltimore, MD and were there in 1966.

Grandson George Beal (1925- ? ) was born in about 1925. He relocated to New Mexico and in 1966 dwelled in Albuquerque.

Grandson Emerson J. Beal (1927- ? ) was born in about 1927.

Daughter Mamie A. Shroyer (1897-1960) was born in Nov. 1897. She wedded Frederick Lee Hurt (Aug. 27, 1889-1980), a native of Roanoke, VA. The pair's one known son was Cedric Hurt. Circa 1930, the Hurts were in Coal Junction, Somerset County, and 1931 lived in Cumberland, MD. Frederick earned a living as a blacksmith for the construction industry. They built a seven-room frame house in 1938 and remained there for good. The Hurts made news in the early 1950s when the Maryland State Roads Commission sought to place a drainage ditch across their property along Bedford Road. The couple objected, and were sued by the state in order to condemn their tract. The case finally went to trial in 1956, and a jury awarded the Hurts $1,500 as compensation. Sadly, Mamie died in 1960 when she was 64 or 65 years of age. Frederick succumbed to the spectre of death in Cumberland at the age of 91 in Oct. 1980. Interment was in Hillcrest Burial Park in Cumberland.

Grandson Cedric Hurt (1915- ? ) was born in about 1915 and grew up in Cumberland, MD.

Son Joseph Adam Shroyer (1898-1977) was born on Nov. 11, 1898 in Williams, PA. At the age of 20, he was employed as a railroad laborer, living with his parents in Fairhope. He entered into marriage with Cary E. Bittner ( ? - ? ). The couple planted roots in Fairhope and appear to have stayed for good. Four offspring borne by the couple were Cedric J. Shroyer, Kenneth G. Shroyer, Mabel V. Shoemaker and Phyllis M. Reger. Joseph went on to a long career as a trackman for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. He held a membershiop in the American Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) Trackman's Brotherhood union and the Eagles aerie. Sadly, at the age of 78, Joseph passed away at home on Aug. 13, 1977. His obituary in the Meyersdale Republican noted that his survivors included 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Rev. Leroy Logsdon presided at the funeral service, with burial in Lybarger Cemetery.

Grandson Cedric J. Shroyer resided in Fairhope in 1977.

Grandson Kenneth G. Shroyer established his home in Hyndman, PA.

Granddaughter Mabel V. Shroyer wedded (?) Shoemaker. She dwelled in Rising Sun, MD circa 1977.

Granddaughter Phyllis M. Shroyer married (?) Reger. She lived in Cumberland as of 1977.

Son Raymond B. Shroyer (1904-1937) was born on Jan. 9, 1904 in Fairhope, Somerset County. He wedded a cousin, Annie Emerick ( ? - ? ). Three children produced by the cople were Marie E. Shroyer, Raymond B. Shroyer Jr. and Dorothy M. Shroyer. Raymond was a coal miner, and in 1930-1931, their residence was in Coal Junction near Jenners, Somerset County. In late 1937, he was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver and was admitted to the Somerset County Home and Hospital. He also was burdened with heart disease and lesions as well as jaundice. After a stay of two months and eight days, he died there, just 11 days before what wouild have been his 34th birthday. Burial was in Cumberland, MD. Oscar Beal and son George attended the funeral service and stayed the night with Raymond's widowed mother.

Granddaughter Marie E. Shroyer (1924- ? ) was born in about 1924.

Grandson Raymond B. Shroyer Jr. (1927- ? ) was born in about 1927.

Granddaughter Dorothy M. Shroyer (1928- ? ) was born in about 1928.

Daughter Nettie Catherine H. Shroyer (1906-1965) was born on April 16, 1906 in Fairhope, Somerset County. At the age of 17, in about 1923, she was joined in wedlock with 24-year-old Henry Walter Smith (Feb. 13, 1900-1974), also of Fairhope and the son of John and Dora (Suder) Smith. Together, they bore at least four offspring, Dorothy Mae Emerick, Genevieve Ellen Shumaker, Ray W. Smith and Carl L. Smith. The couple's home in 1930 was in Fairhope, and they remained permanently. Henry was employed in 1930 as a trackman for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. He was promoted to B&O section hand by 1940. At the age of 59, having borne rheumatic heart disease for about nine months, Nettie passed away in Fairhope on Sept. 18, 1965. Burial was in Madley Cemetery in Buffalo Mills, Bedford County. For anothre nine years, Henry lived as a widower. He died at home at age 74 on March 18, 1974. His funeral was led by Rev. Leroy Logsdon, with an obituary published in the Somerset Daily American.

Granddaughter Dorothy Mae Smith (1929-1992) was born on June 5, 1929 in Fairhope. She wed a cousin, Thomas S. Emerick Jr. (April 1, 1918-1987), son of Thomas S. and Ada (Deneen) Emerick Sr. of Hyndman, Bedford County. They became the parents of one son, William E. "Bill" Emerick. Thomas served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was deployed to Africa and Europe. After the war, he was employed by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad as a trackman. In his free time, Thomas belonged to the Oscar Jordan Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, named in memory of Dorothy's distant cousin of the family of John J. and Elizabeth (Albright) Emerick. He also held memberships in the Somerset Aerie of the Eagles, the New Baltimore Sportsmen's Club and the Old Timers' Baseball Association of Somerset. The family was plunged into grief when Thomas passed away in nearby Cumberland, MD on Sept. 15, 1987. The Somerset Daily American printed an obituary, and Rev. Daniel L. Leister led the funeral. Dorothy outlived her spouse by four-and-a-half years. Death swept her away in Bedford Memorial Hospital at the age of 62 on March 1, 1992. Rev. Kerry L. Cathers led the funeral service, followed by burial of the remains in Madley Cemetery.

Great-grandson William E. "Bill" Emerick (1946-1009) was born on Oct. 14, 1946 in Cumberland, MD. On June 4, 1966, he was united in wedlock with Barbara A. Logue ( ? -2009). Their three offspring were Charles T. "Chuck" Emerick, Scott A. Emerick and Nicole Brook Stoe. Their home for decades was on Corley Road in the New Buena Vista section of Manns Choice, Bedford County. William earned a living operating heavy equipment for New Enterprise Stone & Lime Company. Socially, he belonged to the New Baltimore (PA) Sportsmans Club and the Schellsburg post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He also liked to hunt, play horseshoes and follow the Pittsburgh Steelers. Sadly, the couple died just a month apart. She passed first, on June 25, 2009. After a brief illness, he died in Windber Hospice at age 62 on July 25, 2009. He was pictured in his Somerset Daily American obituary, which noted that his corneas has been donated to medical science following his death. Burial was in Schellsburg Cemetery, following a funeral sermon preached by Rev. Joel Nogle.

Granddaughter Genevieve Ellen Smith (1932-2014) was born on March 14, 1932 in Fairhope. She married Lloyd Richard Shumaker ( ? - ? ). Children born into this family were Linda Catherine Shumaker, James Richard Shumaker Sr. and Betty Chaney. Genevieve liked bluegrass music, assembling puzzles and taking walks. Sadly, they grieved at the death of daughter Linda. The widowed Genevieve spent her final years in nearby Berlin, PA. She passed away at Meadow View Nursing Center at age 82 on July 7, 2014. An obituary in the Somerset Daily American noted that burial was in Comp Cemetery.

Grandson Ray W. Smith (1935- ? ) was born in about 1935. He was in Buffalo Mills, Bedford County in 1992.

Grandson Carl L. Smith (1937- ? ) was born in about 1937. He was united in wedlock with Alice ( ? - ? ). In 1992-2014, the Smiths dwelled in Buffalo Mills, Bedford County.

Daughter Clara E. Shroyer (1908-1995) was born on Sept. 9, 1908 in Fairhope. She was married thrice, the first time at the age of 17 to (?) Emerick ( ? - ? ). The Emericks became the parents of a daughter, Mayme Ellen Brick. The marriage appears to have ended in the mid-to-late 1920s. Then in February 1928, she gave birth to a son, Melvin Frederick Baker, whose father was Norman Baker. It's not known if the parents were married to each other. By 1930, Clara and the Emerick children moved into her parents' residence in Fairhope. The U.S. Census-taker in 1930 wrote Clara's name as "Martha." She was named in her father's obituary in 1931 in the Bedford (PA) Gazette, continuing to use the "Emerick" name. Husband number two was William Grenke ( ? - ? ). The pair lived in Fairhope and bore a son, Junior W. Grenke I. Clara's third spouse was Floyd N. Burley ( ? -1984). Their home in 1977 was in Ellerslie, MD. Sadly, Floyd died on June 16, 1984. Later she moved to Hyndman, PA. She was admitted to Cumberland's Memorial Hospital where she passed away into the arms of death at the age of 87 on Nov. 15, 1995. Her survivors included a baker's dozen grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and three full- and step-great-grandchildren. Her obituary in the Somerset Daily American said that Rev. Rick D. Nelson led the funeral, followed by burial in Lybarger Cemetery in Madley, PA.

Granddaughter Mayme Ellen Emerick (1926- ? ) was born in about 1926. She was joined in wedlock with Wilfred F. Brick ( ? - ? ). They dwelled in rural Hyndman, PA and were the parents of Juanieta A. "Honey" Dom, Wilma Lea Fochtman, Alton W. Brick and Delmas R. Brick. Wilfred served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Mayme's home in 1995 was in rural Hyndman.

Great-granddaughter Juanieta A. "Honey" Brick (1945-1994) was born on Feb. 6, 1945 in Cumberland, MD. She was employed in young adulthood by Westland Manufacturing Company of Greensburg, PA. On Oct. 20, 1967, at the age of 22, she was united in matrimony with Ray W. Dom ( ? - ? ), a native of Wellersburg, Somerset County and the son of Wilbert H. and Madeline Dom. Their wedding was held in St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Ellerslie, MD, by the hand of Rev. J. Howard Smith. Ray at the time of marriage worked for Acme Markets in LaVale, MD. The couple first made their residence in Wellersburg. Later they relocated to near Hyndman, Bedford County, PA. They were the parents of two sons -- Shawn W. Dom and Stacey A. Dom. Juanieta also was the godmother of Courtney Fochtman. Juanieta earned a living at the Harvey H. Zeigler Funeral Home in Ellerslie, and Ray worked for Giant Eagle grocery in Bedford, PA. For fun, Ray liked to do carpentry and house-painting while Juanieta liked to bake, cook and help her neighbors. The couple marked their silver wedding anniversary with a surprise party in the Hyndman Fire Hall on Oct. 17, 1993. Sadness blanketed the family when, at age 48, she passed away in 1994 at Memorial Hospital in Cumberland. Burial was in Restlawn Memorial Park in LaVale, following a funeral service officiated by Rev. Rick D. Nelson. The Somerset Daily American published an obituary.

Great-granddaughter Wilma Lea Brick was a 1968 graduate of Hyndman High School. In young adulthood, she worked at Fairfoot Shoe Company in Bedford, PA. Circa 1969, she married Harry James Fochtman ( ? - ? ), son of Paul Fochtman of New Baltimore, PA. Harry was an alumnus of a welding school in San Francisco and obtained a jobt with Highland Tank and Manufacturing Company of Stoystown, PA. She was in Berlin, PA in the mid-1990s.

Great-grandson Alton W. Brick ( ? - ? ) put down roots in Central City, PA.

Great-grandson Delmas R. Brick ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). In December 1967, he married Darlene Savage ( ? - ? ), daughter of Dayton and Dorothy Savage of Cumberland, MD. The wedding was held in Ellerslie, MD at the Methodist Church. The couple went on to bear three sons -- Delmas R. Brick Jr., Duane Brick and Darrick Brick. Delmas joined the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He trained at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, specializing in maintenance and repair of tracked and wheeled Army vehicles. He was transferred to Vung Tau, Vietnam, as an engineer on Landing Craft Utility Boat 1580, and as a member of the 329th Transportation Company. Later, he made a home in Fairhope, and was employed in the Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, PA. Darlene earned a living through her work at Berlin Brothersvalley High School. In their free time, Delmas liked to work with wood and motor engines and fix automobiles, while Darlene enjoyed flower gardening, home decorating and painting. Their 25th wedding anniversary took the form of a surprise party in the Hyndman Fire Hall on Oct. 17, 1993. They were pictured in a related story in the Somerset Daily American.

Grandson Melvin Frederick Baker (1928-1970) was born on Feb. 9, 1928 in Fairhope, Somerset County. His surname in the 1930 census was shown as "Emerick" but he appears otherwise to have gone by the name "Baker." He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and afterward was employed at the Army's Letterkenny Depot as a munitions leader. He was united in the bonds of marriage with Helen Shumaker ( ? - ? ). Their five offspring were Barbara Ellen Baker, Betty Ann Baker, Melvin Frederick Baker Jr., Jeffrey Francis Baker and Robin Sue Baker. At the age of 42, on July 6, 1970, he died in the Veterans Administration Hospital in Martinsburg, WV. The remains were returned to Fairhope for funeral services in Fairhope Community Church, led by Rev. Leroy Logsdon. Burial was in Comps Cemetery. An obituary was printed in the Chambersburg Public Opinion.

Great-granddaughter Barbara Ellen Baker ( ? - ? )

Great-granddaughter Betty Ann Baker ( ? - ? )

Great-grandson Melvin Frederick Baker Jr. ( ? - ? )

Great-grandson Jeffrey Francis Baker ( ? - ? )

Great-granddaughter Robin Sue Baker ( ? - ? )

Grandson Junior W. Grenke I (1930-1998) was born on May 22, 1930 in Fairhope. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and received a disabling wound of some type. On Feb. 7, 1952, he entered into marriage with Anna Fulk ( ? - ? ). Together they produced a family of five -- Vickie Zeis, Lisa Lindsay, Junior W. Grenke II, Rodney Grenke and Michael Grenke. The family relocated to rural Chambersburg, PA, where Junior was employed for 37 years with the U.S. Army Depot at Letterkenny, retiring as a supervisor. He belonged to the Fort Loudon Post of the American Legion and to AMVETS of Chambersburg. Their address in the late 1990s was 603 Coble Road. Sadly, at age 68, Junior passed away at home on Nov. 24, 1998. His obituary appeared in the Chambersburg Public Opinion. His funeral service was jointly officiated by Rev. George and Nancy Pogue, with interment in Parklawns Memorial Gardens.

Great-granddaughter Vickie Grenke wedded (?) Zeis. She was in Chambersburg, PA in 1998. By 2011, she had married again to (?) Lawson.

Great-granddaughter Lisa Grenke married (?) Lindsay. She lived in Halifax, PA in 1998-2011.

Great-grandson Junior W. Grenke II (1953-2011) was born on Sept. 3, 1953 in Cumberland, MD. He dwelled in Chambersburg, PA over the years and was a 1971 alumnus of James Buchanan High School. On May 2, 1981, he was united in marriage with Kate Dietrich ( ? - ? ). Their union endured for 29 years until cleaved apart by death. Their only daughter was Heather D. Grenke. Junior's career included 27 years with Grove Worldwide and then a decade with E.M. Banzhoff Painting and Paper Hanging. He supplemented his income through his work for the Jack Gaughen/ERA real estate agency. His spare time was spent in his garden, on the golf course, in the kitchen and watching NASCAR races and New York Yankees baseball games. Sadly, he died without warning in Chambersburg Hospital on March 2, 2011 at the age of 57. His funeral service was held at the World Harvest Outreach Church, led by Pastor Emmert Banzhoff and Pastor Gene Strite. The remains were interred in Parklawns Memorial Gardens. In an obituary in the Chambersburg Public Opinion, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to Summit Cancer and Hematology Services, to be used to purchase televisions for cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Great-grandson Rodney Grenke resided in Chambersburg, PA in 2011.

Great-grandson Michael Grenke made his home circa 2011 in Chambersburg, PA.

~ Daughter Sarah "Cordilla" (Emerick) Mills ~

Daughter Sarah "Cordilla" Emerick (1870-1907) was born on April 29, 1870.

In about 1889, at age 18 or 19, she was married to Benjamin F. Mills (Jan. 1863- ? ).

Three children born into this clan included Isaac Raymond Mills, Lonie Julia Bryson Daugherty and Ira Mills Mills. They also lost a child during the 1890s.

When the 1900 federal census enumeration was made, they dwelled in Fairhope, Somerset County. Benjamin labored in a local clay mine in 1900.

Benjamin then moved in April 1901 to Everett, Bedford County, where he planned to "reside in the near future," said the Meyersdale Republican.

At the age of 37, while suffering a miscarriage, septic shock set in, and her health collapsed. She died on Dec. 2, 1907. Burial was in Comp's Church Cemetery.

Benjamin did not live long as a widower. He was deceased by April 1909. At that time, said the Bedford Gazette, his estate sought the appointment of Jacob A. Truax as guardian for the young children Raymond and Lonie.

Son Isaac "Raymond" Mills (1895- ? ) was born on May 5, 1895 in Everett, Bedford County. At the death of his father in about 1908 or 1909, Raymond was taken into the home of his guardian Jacob A. and Jennie E. Truax. Then in 1915, M.N. Stailey was appointed as guardian. Raymond made his home in Everett in 1918, at the address of 123 West Main Street. He was of medium height and build, with grey eyes and dark brown hair. When required to register for the military draft during World War I, he disclosed that he made a living as a laborer for the Pennsylvania Department of Highways.

Daughter Lonie/Lonnie Julia Mills (1897-1983) was born on Aug. 25, 1897. She was age 10 when her mother died, and she was taken into the home of childless farmers Jacob A. and Jennie E. Truax in Breezewood, East Providence Township, Bedford County. She became the couple's foster daughter. Then in 1915, M.N. Stailey was appointed as guardian. At the age of 18, she made a home in Breezewood. On Feb. 10, 1915, she was joined in marriage with 23-year-old laborer Elza Merry Bryson (Aug. 21, 1891-1948), son of Samuel and Amanda (Daniels) Bryson of Breezewood. Officating the wedding, held at Everett, Bedford County, was Rev. George E. King. Together, the couple bore two children, Wanda D. Conover and Eugene Bryson. The United States Census of 1920 shows the family in Breezewood, living along U.S. Route 30, also known as the Lincoln Highway. Elza at that time worked as a sawmill laborer. The census of 1940 shows the family remaining in Breezewood with Elza laboring in construction. By 1948, the couple had separated, with Lonie and their daughter moving to Maryland, with their son living somewhere in Pennsylvania. Elza thus lived by himself and performed odd jobs. On the fateful evening of Dec. 23, 1948, as he was walking along the Lincoln Highway, Elza was struck and instantly killed by a passing motorist, having been thrown or dragged a distance of 100 feet. Said the Bedford (PA) Gazette, "Bryson was found lying on the right side of Route 30 300 yards west of Breezewood... It was found that Bryson suffered a crushed skull, crushed chest, fractures of both shoulders, compound fractures of both legs, a broken neck and numerous lacerations and abrasions... Investigators believe that Bryson was struck by a truck." Mrs. John Conover, of Indian Head, MD, was the informant who signed the official Pennsylvania certificate of death. Funeral services were preached by Rev. H.B. Reiley Jr., and interment was in the old section of Breezewood's Rays Hill Cemetery. Lonie outlived her spouse by 37 years. She married again to Paul Daugherty ( ? - ? ) and dwelled in Harrisburg, PA and later in Everett. Death swept her away on March 7, 1983. She sleeps with her first husband for all time in Breezewood.

Granddaughter Wanda D. Bryson (1918- ? ) was born in about 1918 in Breezewood. She married John Conover ( ? - ? ). The Conovers made a home in 1947 in Everett, Bedford County and in 1948 in Indian Head, MD.

Grandson Eugene Bryson (1921- ? ) was born in about 1921 in Breezewood. Circa 1943, he lived at Laurel Locks Farms, and in 1944 in Pottstown, PA. He found work with the Stanley G. Flagg Company. On July 8, 1955, in nuptials held in the home of presiding clergyman Rev. R.J. Sturgill in Elkton, MD, he was joined in matrimony with Violet Francis ( ? - ? ). She was the daughter of Wilfred Francis of 617 Spruce Street in Pottstown. In announcing the marriage, the Pottstown Mercury said that "The bride chose a suit of tan corded material and white accessories for her wedding. A corsage of white carnations completed her outfit." At the time, Violet was employed by the Pottstown Shirt Factory.

Son Ira Mills (1899- ? ) was born in Aug. 1899 and in boyhood lived in Fairhope, Somerset County. Nothing more about him is known.

~ Son Levi Franklin "Frank" Emerick ~

Son Levi Franklin "Frank" Emerick (1873-1945) was born in Jan. 1873.

When he was 24 years of age, in about 1897, he was united in holy wedlock with 18-year-old Laura Ellen Shroyer (1877-1931).

They were the parents of Nellie Emerick and Charles William Emerick plus one other who died young prior to 1910.

The United States Censuses of 1900 and 1910 shows the family in Allegheny Township, Somerset County, PA. They owned their own farm in 1900 but by 1910 were residing on a farm where they sharecropped.

They grieved on Oct. 4, 1909 at the untimely death of their 11-year-old daughter Nellie.

Circa 1920-1945, they and their son Charles shared a home on the family farm near Madley, Bedford County, PA.

Lybarger Lutheran Church, site of Frank Emerick's funeral and burial

Frank earned a living over the years as a farmer and blacksmith.

Grief blanketed the family when Laura Ellen died at the age of 53 on March 13, 1931. Burial was in Madley Cemetery in Buffalo Mills.

Frank outlived her by 14 years. Tragically, on the fateful day of April 11, 1945, he was badly burned while laboring on the home farm. Reported the Bedford Gazette, "he was working at his blacksmith shop and dropped a piece of iron upon the leaves near the forge. The flames spread to a nearby barn and Mr. Emerick was severely burned as he was attempting to save a horse that was trapped inside the blazing structure.... [He] suffered third degree burns of the face, skull and both hands...." He was rushed to Cumberland's Memorial Hospital, and the Gazette said that "His condition is serious." He died that evening. The body was transported to Hyndman for funeral services held in the Lybarger Lutheran Church. Rev. Petrea of Schellsburg presided over the service. Burial was in the church cemetery.

Daughter Nellie Irene Emerick (1898- ? ) was born in about April 1898. She died at the age of 11 on Oct. 4, 1909. The cause of her untimely passing is not yet known.

Son Charles William Emerick (1911- ? ) was born in about 1911. He was widowed by 1940, and shared a home with his widowed father near Madley, Bedford County. The federal census enumeration of 1940 shows that Charles earned a living as a laborer with the Works Progress Administration.

~ Son Charles Emerick ~

Son Charles Emerick (1875- ? ) was born in 1875. He was deceased by 1944, and conceivably could have died in childhood or young manhood.

~ Son George E. Emerick ~

Son George E. Emerick (1877-1937) was born on Sept. 20, 1877 in Glenn Savage, Somerset County.

He married Mary Ada Miller ( ? - ? ).

They resided at 1122 Vine Street in Connellsville, Fayette County. Reported the Connellsville Daily Courier, he "had been in the service of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad for 36 years -- five years as a brakeman and 31 years as a conductor." He was a member of the Order of Railroad Conductors and of the local orders of the Eagles and Knights of Pythias.

George E. Emerick's workplace, the B&O Railroad yards, Connellsville, PA

For two years before his death, he endured hypertension and "cardiac insufficiency." He contracted a deadly case of influenza in early January 1937 and was forced to stay home from work a few days later.

Unable to rally, he succumbed on Jan. 19, 1937 at the age of 60. After funeral services at the residence, which included rites by the Eagles, his remains were returned to Somerset County for interment in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, led by Rev. E.A. Schultz, of the United Brethren Church. Ada Emerick signed his death certificate.

~ Daughter Effie Geneva "Nettie" (Emerick) Shaffer ~

Daughter Effie Geneva "Nettie" Emerick (1883-1944) -- also more commonly known as "Jeannette" -- was born on April 14, 1883 in Somerset County.

On or about Dec. 23, 1909, at the age of 26, she wedded 25-year-old farmer William "Henry" Shaffer (Oct. 28, 1884-1965) of Connellsville, Fayette County and the son of Solomon B. and Clarissa (Christner) Shaffer.

Together, this couple bore four known children -- Kenneth Solomon Shaffer, Evelyn Mae McCune, Rosella Mildred Shaffer and Martha Evelyn Cramer. The family mourned at the loss of infant daughter Rosella in 1914.

Upon marriage, they immediately established a residence near Dawson, Fayette County, at times considered part of the community of Scottdale, Westmoreland County, PA, and remained for good. William was employed as a teamster in a planing mill in 1910. By 1920, he had turned to dairy farming. He also earned income through carpentry.

Jeannette was mentioned in her father's Indiana newspaper obituary in 1944. Their home at that time was in rural Dawson, Fayette County.

Having contracted influenza and acute kidney disease, Jeannette surrendered to death just a few weeks shy of her 61st birthday on March 29, 1944. Burial was in Shaffer Cemetery near Indian Head, with Rev. J.J. Wimmer officiating, and an obituary appearing in the Somerset Daily American.

Ruffsdale, PA, Henry Shaffer's home in the 1940s and '50s

Henry survived his wife by more than two decades. He resided during that time in Ruffsdale, Fayette County, and married a second time to Etta Love (Sept. 11, 1880-1958). She was the daughter of Sylvester and Lucy (Gallatin) Love of East Huntington Township, Westmoreland County. She brought a stepdaughter to the union, Dorothy Stoner.

The second union endured until Etta's death at age 77 on July 20, 1958. Burial was in Mount Lebanon Cemetery of Tarrs, PA.

Stricken with anemia, hardening of the arteries and an enlargted prostate, Henry was admitted to H.C. Frick Community Hospital and died there at the age of 80 on July 7, 1965. The remains were lowered into the earth of Shaffer Cemetery, with Rev. Auburn Boyers leading the funeral service. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier said he was survived by 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Son Solomon "Kenneth" Shaffer (1911-1997) was born on Jan. 20, 1911 in Scottdale, East Huntington Township, Westmoreland County. In young manhood he stood 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighed 132 lbs., with blue eyes and brown hair. He entered into the union of marriage with Emma Josephine Stouffer (1920-1993). The children born to this couple were Shirley Marie Hiles Thomas, William Kenneth Shaffer, Judy Shaffer, Donald George Shaffer and perhaps two others. The family put down roots in Bear Rocks in the rural outskirts of Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA. Their house was near the Kreinbrook school. Circa 1940, with the nation still in the lingering grip of the Great Depression, Kenneth earned a living through employment with the Works Progress Administration in Clinton, Fayette County. Sadly, the spectre of death visited the family twice in 1943 and 1944. Daughter Judy died at birth in 1943. A year later, three-year-old son William fell at home and was badly injured, with an infection of peritonitis setting in. He passed away while riding home from a physician's examination on Feb. 23, 1944. The boy's remains were lowered into eternal peace in Shaffer Cemetery in Indian Head.

Granddaughter Shirley Marie Shaffer (1938-2010) was born on April 25, 1938. At the age of 19, she is known to have eloped to Winchester, VA in May 1957 to marry 26-year-old Lewis M. Hiles, son of Edward and Helen (McIntyre) Hiles of Ruffsdale. Later, she wed (?) Thomas ( ? - ? ). She died in Connellsville on Nov. 15, 2010.

Grandson Donald George "Buckwheat" Shaffer (1947-1994) was born on Jan. 6, 1947 in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA. He entered into marriage with Charlene Yauger (May 29, 1945-2023), daughter of Brent and Bertha (Butler) Yauger of Independence, PA. The Shaffers resided in Adelaide near Connellsville, Fayette County. Together, they produced a family of four -- Marvan Miller, Mark Miller, Shireen Whalen and Shannon Devine. Grief cascaded over the family when, at age 47, Donald passed away on Jan. 28, 1994. His remains are in repose in Stouffer Cemetery. Charlene outlived her spouse by nearly three decades and supported herself through her work at Oglevee Floral. She relocated to Greensburg, Westmoreland County. There, she surrendered to the angel of death at the age of 78 on July 23, 2023. Officiating her funeral service was Pastor Lee Maley, a distant cousin of the family of Lewis and Martha Ellen (Mayle) Mayle of Philippi, WV. Her remains were lowered into the sacred soil of Stouffer Cemetery.

Great-grandson Marvan/Marvin Miller has resided in Connellsville.

Great-grandson Mark Miller made his residence in 2017 in Connellsville.

Great-granddaughter Shireen entered into marriage with Eric Whalen. She was in Latrobe, PA in 2017.

Great-granddaughter Shannon (1962-2017) was born on Feb. 26, 1962. She was the mother of Matthew Opperman and Stevie Lynn Opperman. She was joined in wedlock with (?) Devine ( ? - ? ) and used that surname at death. Then on June 23, 2012, she married Theodore L. Staub ( ? - ? ). The Staubs dwelled in New Cumberland, PA. Sadly, at the age of 55, Shannon passed away in Geisinger Medical Center of Danville, PA on Nov. 6, 2017. An obituary was printed in the Harrisburg Patriot-News.

Daughter Evelyn Mae Shaffer (1912-1979) was born in 1912. She wedded Charles Omer McCune (1909-2006). Together, they produced a family of four -- Jeanetta Belle Stants, Charles E. McCune, Shirley Irene McCune and Pastor Kenneth Gilbert McCune Sr. They dwelled in Ruffsdale, Westmoreland County in 1944-1965. Death overtook her in 1979. Burial was in Barren Run Methodist Cemetery in Smithton. Charles lived for another 27 years. He passed away in Uniontown Hospital on May 29, 2006.

Granddaughter Jeanetta Belle "Jennie" McCune (1929-2017) was born on Oct. 18, 1929 in Wooddale, Fayette County. She married (?) Stants ( ? - ? ). Their brood of seven offspring included David Roger Stants, Douglas Arthur Stants, Jeannetta Darlene Sims, Deborah Elaine Painter, LaDonna Evelyn Griffith, Darla Jean McCune and Bobbie Diane Condie. The family is believed to have resided in Webster, PA circa 1961. Jeanetta died in Monongahela, Washington County, PA at the age of 87 on March 22, 2017. Burial was in Barren Run Methodist Cemetery, Smithton.

Grandson Charles E. McCune (1935-2007) was born on Aug. 26, 1935 in Ruffsdale, PA. He wedded Bertha A. Bisel ( ? - ? ). He died at the age of 72 in Lewistown, Mifflin County, PA on Nov. 30, 2007. Interment of the remains was in Juniata Memorial Park in Lewistown.

Granddaughter Shirley Irene McCune (1940-1948) was born on Nov. 11, 1940. She grew up in Ruffsdale, PA. Tragically, the youngster contracted lobar pneumonia, and passed away at age eight on Dec. 13, 1948, as a patient in Frick Memorial Hospital in nearby Mount Pleasant, PA. The child's remains were interred in Barren Run Methodist Cemetery.

Grandson Pastor Kenneth Gilbert McCune Sr. (1933-2011) was born in 1933. He tied the knot with Hazel V. (1935- ? ). He died in Uniontown, PA in July 2011. He sleeps for all time in Lafayette Memorial Park in Brier Hill, Fayette County.

Daughter Martha Evelyn Shaffer (1916-2000) was born in 1916. She married Spurgeon Cramer (Nov. 9, 1909-1979), in Calumet, Westmoreland County, PA, the son of Austin and Katherine (Glaus) Cramer. The couple did not reproduce. She resided circa 1944 in Scottdale, PA and in 1965 in Ligonier, Westmoreland County. Spurgeon made a career with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, where he rose to serve as acting deputy game protector. He returned in 1974, having spent 27 years with the agency. They belonged to Calvary United Methodist Church of Ligonier, and he was a substitute teacher of the congregation's Fellowship Sunday School class. He also served as treasurer of the Ligonier Area Advisory Group, with a mission to assist local governments in formulating a land use growth management plant to channel future development, and was an advisor to a Boy Scouts troop. Sadly, at the age of 69, Spurgeon died in Latrobe Area Hospital on May 27, 1979.Rev. James P. Fogg presided at the funeral service. Burial was in Mount Nebo Cemetery. An obituary appeared in the Latrobe Bulletin.

~ Son Russell Calvin Emerick ~

Son Russell Calvin Emerick (1886-1961) was born on March 27, 1886 in Glen Savage, PA.

He married Florence May Baker (Oc. 15, 1891-1969), daughte of Albert M. and Georgiana (Beal) Baker.

Their known children were Irene Valentine, Vernon R. Emerick, Victor Emerick, Lester C. Emerick.

Russell labored as a machine runner in a coal mine in Wellersburg, Southampton Township during the 1930s. Circa 1940, they resided on Old Plank Road in Wellersburg and provided a home for their three-year-old grandson, Teddy Theorig.

Daughter Irene was employed as a twister in a silk mill in 1940, and Russell continued to labor as a coal miner. When his brother Frank died of burns suffered in a farm accident, Russell was named in the Bedford Gazette obituary.

His final home was in Wellersburg. In May 1961, stricken with cancer of the bladder, Russell was admitted to the Somerset County Home in Berlin. There, despite treatment, he died at age 75 on July 31, 1961. His remains were placed into eternal rest in Cook Cemetery in Wellersburg, with Rev. Charles Raley presiding, and an obituary appearing in the Cumberland Evening Times.

Florence lived for another eight years. Death carried her away on Oct. 5, 1969. The Meyersdale Republican and Cumberland News published obituaries, saying she was survived by 10 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren. Officiating was Rev. John Weaver of the Grace United Methodist Church in Hyndman.

Son Victor A. Emerick (1911- ? ) was born in about 1911. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and was stationed in 1944 in Norfolk, VA. He was deployed to the South Pacific Theatre. Victor was pictured in a Cumberland Sunday Times story in May 1944 about how tall he and his brother Vernon were. Victor dwelled in 1961-1969 in Rockville, MD. He is believed to have been married first to Geneva ( ? - ? ). He sued her for divorce in May 1948 in Allegany County Circuit Court. Evidence suggests that his second bride was Roberta R. ( ? - ? ). He filed for divorce in Oct. 1954, again in the Allegany circuit court.

Son Lester C. Emerick (1915-1967) was born on Feb. 22, 1915 in Connellsville. He made a home in adulthood in Wellersburg and worked in Cumberland at the Kelly Springfield Tire Company plant. Evidence suggests that he married Florence Lowery ( ? - ? ). The couple's brood of offspring included Donald Emerick, Leslie Emerick, Fay Emerick, Patricia Ann Perdew, Paulette McCoy and Beverly Sue Kiefer. The couple divorced, and Florence then wedded Lester's brother Vernon. Sadly, he suffered a debilitating illness for the last eight years of his life. He was admitted to Cumberland's Sacred Heart Hospital and passed away there, at the age of 52, on Aug. 22, 1967. His remains were lowered under the sod in Rest Lawn Memorial Gardens, following a funeral presided over by Rev. John A. Klindt. An obituary in the Meyersdale Republican failed to name his ex-wife or brother but did say he was survived by 13 grandchildren in addition to his brother Victor and sister Irene.

Grandson Donald "Sackum" Emerick lived in Wellersburg in 1967.

Grandson Leslie "Sam" Emerick resided in 1967 in Wellersburg.

Grandson Fay "Solly" Emerick relocated to Cumberland.

Granddaughter Patricia Ann "Pat" Emerick (1940-2012) was born on Nov. 20, 1940 in Wellersburg, Somerset County. She was a member of the 1959 graduating class of Meyersdale High School. In young womanhood she earned a living as a secretary with Diehl's Esso Station. On Jan. 6, 1962, she wedded Melvin Perdew ( ? - ? ) of Cumbereland, MD. Their home in 1967 was at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida. The couple's two sons were Gary Perdew and Eddie Perdew. Patricia was employed later with the U.S. Civil Service. Their final home together was in Montgomery, AL. As Patricia's health failed, she was admitted to the Baptist Medical Center in Montgomery. There, on Dec. 2, 2012, she passed away at the age of 72. Her ashes were placed into rest in Greenwood & Serenity Memorial Gardens, Montgomery.

Granddaughter Paulette "Gerb" Emerick married Robert McCoy. Circa 1967-2020, they were in Hyndman. Three offspring born to this marriage were Gail Turner, Tracie Matthews and Darren McCoy.

Great-granddaughter Gail McCoy ( ? - ? ) - On March 18, 1983, she wedded Brent Alan Turner (Jan. 27, 1957-2020). Their union endured for 37 years until cleaved apart by death. Brent was a member of the 1975 graduating class of Allegany High School. The pair made a home in Hyndman and together bore two children, Daniel Turner and Kelsey Suter. During his career, Brent was employed by Potomac Edison/First Energy. The family attended Cooks Mills United Methodist Church, and he held a membership in the Kennells Mill Sportsmen's Club, Cumberland Outdoor Club and Quack Pack camping group. He loved vacations at Myrtle Beach, attending concerts performed by the Cramer Brothers and Tim Haines, hunting and fishing, and rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Sadly, stricken with cancer, Brent died at home at the age of 63 on April 9, 2020. His remains were laid to rest in Cooks Mills Cemetery near Hyndman.

Great-granddaughter Tracie McCoy married Chris Matthews. They have produced three daughters. The family dwells in Cumberland.

Great-grandson Darren McCoy ( ? - ? ) was deceased before 2010.

Granddaughter Beverly Sue Emerick ( ? -2015) was born on (?). On June 20, 1964, she entered into wedlock with Claude William Keifer ( ? - ? ). The Keifers were the parents of Billi Jo Diehl Mueller-Heubach. She dwelled in rural Bedford.

Great-granddaughter Billi Jo Keifer ( ? - ? ) has been married twice. Her first spouse, whom she wed on Aug. 18, 1992, was David E. Diehl Jr. ( ? -1994). Their only daughter was Maria Diehl. After David's untimely death, Billi Jo was joined in wedlock on Feb. 2, 2007 with Oliver Mueller-Heubach. The couple parted ways in September 2010.

Daughter Irene Emerick (1917- ? ) was born in about 1917. She was employed as a twister in a silk mill in 1940. She married Charles Valentine ( ? - ? ). They lived in Barrelville, MD in 1961-1968 and in Hyndman in 1969.

Son Vernon R. Emerick (1919-1968) was born in 1919 in Wellersburg. He served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, standing 6 feet, 6 in ches tall. He wedded Florence Lowery ( ? - ? ). Having been married before to Vernon's brother, she brought six children into the second union -- Donald Emerick, Leslie Emerick, Fay Emerick, Beverly Sue Kiefer, Patricia Perdew and Paulette McCoy. Vernon became seriously ill and was admitted to the Veterans Administration Center in Martinsburg, Berkeley County. A week later, he died there at the age of 49 on Dec. 1, 1968. His obituary was printed in the Meyersdale Republican. Rev. Kenneth Korns led the funeral, with interment in Rest Lawn Memorial Gardens. The Bedford Honor Guard and Hyndman post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars provided rites at the graveside.

~ Son Gilbert C. Emerick ~

Son Gilbert C. Emerick (1911-1988) was born on Christmas Day 1911 in Fairhope, Somerset County. He was 43 years younger than his eldest half-sister.

He and his father relocated to Indiana by 1937, making a home in Helmer, Steuben County in 1928. The father died in Gilbert's residence in Hamilton, IN in January 1944.

Gilbert was employed by the Wabash Railroad. He belonged to the Hamilton Fish and Game Club and the Auburn lodge of the Moose.

On Jan. 6, 1940, when he was 27 years of age, Gilbert was joined in wedlock with Dorothy Herma (Lower) Stourse (1907-1986), a native of Clare, Clare County, MI and the widow of George Lyman Strouse (1905-1937). The wedding was led by Rev. William Wenger in the parsonage of the Lutheran Church in West Fairfield, IN. In announcing the marriage, the Angola Herald said that "They will reside in Helmer."

Dorothy is believed to have brought two stepdaughters into the marriage, Betty (Strouse) Bry and Helen (Strouse) Smith.

Together, the pair bore three daughters of their own -- Nancy Gunter, Margo Taylor and Cathy Alexander.

Sadly, Dorothy succumbed to the spectre of death in 1986. Gilbert survived her by about two years. He died at the age of 76 or 77 in 1988. Burial of the remains was in Wright Cemetery in Hudson, Steuben County.

Gilbert outlived his wife by two years. Toward the end he became a resident of the Betz Nursing Home in Auburn, IN. At the age of 76, he died on April 7, 1988. He was survived by 15 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

Stepdaughter Betty Strouse ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She grew up in or near Angola, Steuben County, IN. She wedded (?) Bry and resided in Auburn, IN.

Stepdaughter Helen Strouse ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She married (?) Smith. They dwelled in Kendallville, IN.

Daughter Nancy Emrick ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She entered into marriage with (?) Gunter. Their home in1988 was in Hamilton, IN.

Daughter Margo Emrick ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She was joined in wedlock with (?) Taylor. Circa 1988, they made a home in Hudson, IN.

Daughter Cathy Emrick ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She was united in matrimony with (?) Alexander. The couple put down roots in Angola, IN.

Minerd.com extends gratitude to the Somerset (PA) Historical Center, James Perry Emerick, Josephine Toellner Emerick, George Christian Schempp and the late Gilbert R. Gaumer for his contributions to this biography.