Emil Pierson

Emil was born on August 29, 1937, in Far Rockaway, New York, to Emil W. Pierson and Evelyn G. Overton. He was raised in West Hempstead, New York. While serving in the U.S. Navy, he met Carolyn Somerfeldt, whom he later married. Together they built a life that included eight children and dozens of pets.

Life took them to Connecticut, Washington, Texas, and Utah before they settled in Lincoln, Nebraska, where they spent most of their lives. Following Carolyn's death in 2015, Emil moved to Magnolia, Arkansas to live with his daughter, Margo Pierson.

Emil entered the U.S. Navy in July 1957 and was honorably discharged in June 1961. Following his active-duty service, he continued serving his country through the U.S. Navy, Naval Reserves, U.S. Army, Army Reserves, and National Guard. During his military career, he received training in pharmacy and other medical fields.

A lifelong learner, Emil pursued higher education throughout his life, earning an Associate Degree in Animal Science, a Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture, a Master's Degree in Agronomy, and a Ph.D. in Plant Mineral Nutrition. His professional life was as varied as his interests, and over the years he worked on a dairy farm, as a construction worker, greenhouse manager, home builder/remodeler, and a university professor.

Emil was a man of many talents and passions. He was active in the Nebraska Herbal Society, held a private pilot's license, and was a licensed amateur radio operator. He found great joy in gardening, particularly in growing tomatoes and peppers. Family and friends fondly remember his annual "tomato tasting" gatherings, where he proudly shared the many varieties he cultivated. He also enjoyed growing grapes and fruit trees and keeping bees.

Emil was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Carolyn Somerfeldt Pierson, and his sister, Edith Pierson Korb.

He is survived by his eight children: Laura Reichert, Margo Pierson, Krista Karp, Emil Pierson, Andy Johnson, Rebekah Steele, Erika Deen, and Judie Dunn; his sister, Ethel Scheper; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

Emil's curiosity, dedication, service, and love for family will be remembered by all who knew him.

Interment will take place at Wyuka Cemetery, 3600 O Street, Lincoln, Nebraska at a later date.