Emerson Lee Lockrow, age 96 of Grand Rapids, was called to his heavenly father on Friday, September 25, 2015. Emerson was born in Detroit, Michigan on September 24, 1919 to Julia and Harry Lockrow. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Gerry Jurun Lockrow; children, Janet (Tim) Richards, Barbara (Charles) McLean and David (Mary) Lockrow, special Brasilian daughter Claudia Guedes; adored grandchildren, Ben and Sam Richards, Lauren and Scott McLean, and Erin (Dan) DiCamillo, Andrew and Patrick Lockrow; sister-in-law, Helen Biro; and brother-in-law, Andrew (Frances) Jurun. Emerson attended Central High School and Western Michigan University before he proudly served his country in the Philippines during World War II (4 years, 3 months and 3 days) with the 13th Air Force. He met his wife while stationed in Palos Verdes, CA. After returning home Emerson graduated from Western Michigan University and founded Overhead Door Co. of Grand Rapids in 1948. He enjoyed winters in Palm Desert, CA. Special thanks to all the Porter Hills staff especially Marcia MacGraw and Janette Weeks whose love, compassion, and kindness was unmatched. The family will greet friends and relatives Saturday, October 3, 1:00-2:00 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids with a Memorial Service following at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Salvation Army or Meijer Gardens.
