Emery Sary

EAST PEORIA—Emery Sary, 90, of East Peoria, died at 6:25 PM on Friday, April 11, 2008 at his residence. He was born on December 12, 1917 to Michael and Barbara Lukas Sary in East Peoria. In May 1948, he married the love of his life, Virginia May Luedtke in East Peoria. She preceded him in death on October 21, 2005. Surviving are 2 sons, Joe (Sharon) Sary of Peoria and Steve (Sue) Sary of East Peoria; 1 daughter, Susan Sary of Chicago; 5 grandchildren, Jason, Eric, Nicki, Jon and Stephanie Sary; 2 great grandchildren, Jeffrey and Evan Sary. He was preceded in death by brothers Mike and Louie and sisters Anna and Julie. Emery was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He took great pride in his family, loving and being loved by all. Mom and dad were always there for us. We were always center stage. To comprehend the void would be mistaken. Dad served his country during World War II in France and England with the Eighth Air Force. His work began early in the fields and coal yards of East Peoria. Officially, he began as an apprentice at Caterpillar before the war. He was a member of the Operating Engineers Local #649 in Peoria. He was most proud of serving as both Superintendent and Past President and Trustee of the East Peoria Sanitary District. He also worked for East Peoria School District 86. Dad was born and raised at the foot of Center Street and took tremendous pride in the history that surrounded him. He was often sought after for his remembrances and understanding of local history. He would willingly share that with whomever asked. Dad loved the outdoors and working in his once vast garden. He deeply understood and respected nature and enjoyed reading to increase his insatiable knowledge. He took great pride in his community, immersing himself and his children whether it be as Head Scout Master in the Cub Scouts, helping build what was initially the East Peoria Little and Pony Leagues, or judging at the area Science Fair. Emery was a member of the Charter Oak Bible Church in Peoria. Words that would simply describe our Dad were the last words spoken by his wife and our Mom, “Emery, you are the kindest and gentlest man I’ve ever known.” We’ve truly been blessed. A funeral service will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at Deiters Funeral Home in East Peoria. The Rev. Jim Buchanan will officiate. Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM on Tuesday, April 15 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria.

Emery Sary

December 12, 1917 - April 11, 2008