Emil was born to Joseph and Agnes Saphire, on October 16, 1932, in Newark NJ. He served in the US Army during the Korean War, and came home to marry his high school sweetheart, Gilda L. Saphire, née Carlesimo, in 1956. He worked his way up from salesperson to northeast regional manager for Florsheim Shoes before retiring in 2000. He and his wife enjoyed the friendship of many close friends for travel, and regular golf and card games. After retiring, he and Gilda began their 22-year second honeymoon. They moved to the Fairways community in Lakewood, NJ, enjoyed the friendship of neighbors and were members of the bocce team. Emil and Gilda enjoyed taking cruises and trips to Atlantic City, where Emil happily started the day at the poker slots followed by a Crown Royal cocktail and dinner at Amphora.
Emil is predeceased by his sister, Marie and brother, George. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Gilda and daughters Lynn Klionsky, her wife, Alyson Parker, Lisa McGonigle and her husband Michael McGonigle, and his beloved daughter-in-law Kathleen Saphire. He was predeceased by his son, Joseph E. Saphire.
Emil’s generosity, unconditional love, wise guidance, many hugs, and beautiful heart will be deeply missed, but forever carried, by 8 grandchildren and their spouses; Joe, Jr & Claire, Amy & Sam, Christopher & Claire, Jessica & Brian, David & Julia, Adam and his fiancé Savannah, Katie and her partner Shelby, and his youngest grandchild, Liam. And his legacy continues through his 6 great-grandchildren, Matilda, Olivia, Dylan, Anita, Theo and Ada.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 23rd at 10:30 am at St. Mary of the Lake Church, 43 Madison Avenue, Lakewood, NJ.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Millhill Child and Family Development Center, 101 Oakland St, Trenton, NJ 08618 www.millhillcenter.org
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.DEliaFuneralHome.com for the Saphire family.
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