Emerson Smith

Emerson L. Smith, age 83, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, February 1, 2008, surrounded by his family. Emerson was born March 19, 1924 in Juhl, Michigan, the son of the late William M. & Anna (Steinman) Smith. He served with the U.S. Army during World War II in the European, African, and Middle Eastern Theaters. After the war, he married the former Marion Lewis on March 31, 1947. She preceded him in death on August 6, 1994. In 1955, Emerson started Smittys Harper Floor Stores, a retail carpet operation, in St. Clair Shores and Royal Oak, retiring in 1991. He then built his home south of Watrousville on a family farm that was in his family for many years. Emerson enjoyed eating out at restaurants that had good food and would often drive many miles for dinner. He also enjoyed being a farmer and going to horse pulling events. Emerson is survived by one daughter, Jenny Ralston of Vassar; one grandson and granddaughter, Gary Ralston of Byram, MS and Candice Ralston of St. Louis, MI; one great-grandson, Michael Flebbe of St. Louis; a friend and dear companion, Joyce Barrons of Caro and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Emerson was preceded in death by one son Timothy Lee Smith on November 14, 2005 and by two brothers, William Smith and Audrey Eugene Smith.