James Vernon "Jim" Emerick

James V. Emerick, age 84, of Somerville, OH passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at his home. He was born January 22, 1941 in South Bend, Indiana to the late William and Arlena (Senff) Emerick.

James graduated from Purdue University in 1964 with a B.S. in industrial engineering. He owned his own business, K-E Industrial Repair Incorporated for 50 years.

Jim was both a thinker and a doer. He woke up every morning with the motto, “You’re burning daylight,” and set out on the most unique and unexpected projects. Everyone in the family has a story—or several—about his wild ideas that somehow always turned into incredible accomplishments.

A true adventurer at heart, Jim traveled extensively across the United States. He never adhered to a typical routine, often packing up his RV on a whim and drove until the weather suited him. He also loved visiting his “vacation” properties in Canada and Kentucky—though those trips often turned into building projects rather than relaxation.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of fond memories, laughter, and a spirit of adventure that touched everyone who knew him. Rest in peace.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter Teresa K. (Emerick) Bishop; sisters Marilyn (Emerick) Smith and Jean (Emerick) Epperson. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Karen (Keesling) Emerick; his children Daniel Lee Emerick, Cynthia Lynn Emerick, and Scott James (Jennifer) Emerick; grandchildren Nathan (Savannah) Emerick, Tyler Whitson, Valerie Whitson, Lily Emerick, Kate Emerick, and Nick Emerick; great-granddaughter Palmer James Emerick; sister Janice Goble; brothers Carl Emerick and William Emerick; and numerous nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 10:30 am until the time of the funeral service at 11:30 am at the Gard Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 113 Ada Doty Street, Gratis, Ohio with Pastor Gary Agee officiating. Burial will follow at Fairmound Cemetery in West Elkton, Ohio. The family would like to invite everyone to West Elkton United Methodist Church, 120 Main Street, West Elkton, Ohio after the service for a lunch and continued fellowship. Memorial contributions may be sent to American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, Texas 75284-0692. Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.