Gavin, Emmajane (Kempker) Ila, age 85, passed away in her home surrounded by loved ones on May 13, 2020 in Fruitport Mi. Emma was born on November 11, 1934 to Gerritt and Violet (Rose) Kempker. She grew up in Cloverville, attended Beach School and graduated from Muskegon Heights High School in 1953. She married Daniel Howard Gavin on July 14, 1956. Emma retired from Amstore after over 40 dedicated years. Emma was preceded in death by her husband Dan, son Jim, brother Kirk, sister Diane and her parents.
Emma was a charter member and past President of the Fruitport Eagles Ladies Auxiliary.
She loved spending time with her family, including her 6 children: Greg (Sue) Gavin, Terri (Larry) Smith, Shelly Douglas, Bill (Donna) Gavin, Denise (Christine) Gavin, Jim Gavin; her 13 grandchildren: Jeremy, Jessica, Jason and Jolene Smith, Ben (Nique), Nate (Kelsey) and Kristen Douglas, Allyson (Jeffery) Morton, Drew (Ashley) Gavin, Amanda Gavin, Emily Gavin, Josephine and Milo Gavin, Courtney (Jeff) Cummins, Chris Ackerman; her 26 great grandchildren; and her siblings Gail (Robert) Dobyns, Sam (Linda) Kempker, Judy (Phil) DuShane, Gary (Cindy) Kempker.
Emma enthusiastically supported her children and grandchildren in all their interests, be it music, art, dance, school, sports or climbing trees. She never missed a game, race, swim meet, or the opportunity to congratulate her extended family, including nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews on their accomplishments, graduations, births and weddings. She enjoyed country music concerts and dancing with Danny. She also enjoyed reading, doing puzzles, birthday celebrations, traveling and spending time with family at Big Blue Lake.
Emma’s smile filled a room with warmth and her hugs filled our hearts with love. Her strength and courage will lift us always. You will be missed Mom, Grandma, Sister, Friend.
A memorial service to honor the life of Emma will be held later this year at the Fruitport Eagles in Cloverville. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Emma's name to Harbor Hospice.
DONACIONES
Harbor Hospice1050 W Western Ave, Muskegon, Michigan 49441
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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