Emerson F. Belongia, age 81, of West Bend, passed away Wednesday January 22, 2014 at Ivy Manor.
He was born on April 5, 1932 in Clark County to the late Fred and Clara (nee DeGrande) Belongia. Emerson moved with his family to West Bend in 1944 and attended West Bend High School until entering the U.S. Marine Corp. in November of 1951. His tour of duty included being stationed in Japan during the Korean War until 1956.
Upon returning to West Bend, Emerson worked as heavy equipment operator for Rudy's Trenching until his retirement in 1997. He also obtained his plumbing license for outdoor construction. In his spare time he enjoyed building houses to sell.
He is survived by four sisters, Sr. Catherine Belongia of Denville, NJ, Sr. Patricia Belongia of Stanley, Roseann Beranek of Milladore, and Veronica (Darrell) Davidson of Neshkoro; two brothers, Alden (Donna) Belongia of West Bend, and Matthew (Kathleen) Belongia of Willow Springs, MO; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Myron, Clayton, and James; along with a brother-in-law, James Beranek.
Funeral services in remembrance of Emerson will be held on Sunday January 26th at 11:00 am at the Myrhum ~ Patten Funeral Home (1315 W. Washington St.) West Bend, with a reception to follow. Deacon Dan Schroeder of St. Mary's Immaculate Conception Parish will officiate. Visitation will be at the funeral home Sunday from 10:00 am until the time of service. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery.
Memorials to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105) or the charity of your choice are appreciated by the family.