Emerson Brent Smith Jr. passed away in his home on Sunday, April 20, after a long battle with cancer. Emerson was a loving and compassionate man. He had a huge smile that could light up the room.
He spent his last years caring for his wife, Tina, and her medical issues, all while battling his own cancer. Emerson and his wife were stubborn folks who didn’t like to ask anyone for help, so they managed their illnesses mostly on their own, and they did it with dignity and grace.
Emerson was in the Air Force when he was a younger man. He joined as a way to get to the mainland from his home in Hawaii. He used it as a way to travel and meet people.
He enjoyed fishing and would pick up a rod any chance he got. He loved camping and being outdoors. He loved animals and his service dog, Lincoln, was an amazing companion to him. He was so proud of his dog and how well trained he was.
Emerson’s biggest passion in life was his family. He loved them more than anything and would do anything in his power just to see them smile. His wife was his world, and he took such amazing care of her up to the very end. He didn’t want to be here without her, and followed her to the heavens just nine days after her passing.
A celebration for Emerson and Tina will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, at the Bear Pavilion at the Bear Ice Ponds. Speeches will start around 3 p.m., with a spaghetti dinner to follow. They wanted us to have them one last party, so come gather together in remembering Emerson and his beloved wife, Tina.
