Willard Emery, age 96, of Stanton, died Tuesday, November 15, 2022,
Willard Robert Emery was born on January 19, 1926, in Stanton Township, the son of Earl R. and Eva (Ruff) Emery. He grew up there and went to District 9 Country School. On May 7, 1949, Willard was united in marriage to Phyllis Margaret “Peggy” Daniels at the Stanton United Methodist Church. Willard served his country in the U. S. Army and was a member of the American legion Post # 84 in Northfield. He was a farmer all of his life and a gardener.
He sold seed and feed for various companies for years. He farmed until 1991. In 1993, Willard received the Outstanding Conservation Farmer Award from the Goodhue County Soil and Water Conservation District. He took over his father’s insurance business in 1962 and sold insurance for 57 years. He also served on the Dakota-Stanton Insurance Board for many years. He and Peggy traveled the U. S. with good friends, and went on several European farm tours. They also enjoyed cruises in the Caribbean and to Alaska. Willard served on the Stanton Cemetery Board for many years. He worked at two golf courses, mowing for 10 years. He also worked for the Northfield Ballroom. He was a lifelong member of the Stanton United Methodist Church, having been baptized and confirmed there.
Survivors include his sons Keith, Lee (Deb), Steven (Shirley), and Glen (Teresa); grandchildren Brian (Alison) Emery, Bryce Emery, Jessica Emery, Katie (Kirk) Hoover, Tracy Snaza, Craig (Liv) Emery, Travis (Emily) Emery, Rachel (Andy) Stein, Alicia Emery, and Rodney (Casey) Emery, 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Eva Emery, his wife Peggy Emery, sister Julia Emery, and brothers Howard and Kenneth Emery.
Memorial Services were held on Sat, Nov 26, at 11:00 am at Stanton United Methodist Church, 1020 Hwy 19 Blvd, Stanton, MN 55081. Visitation will be Fri, Nov. 25, from 4-8:00 pm, at Lundberg Funeral Home, 5839 Hwy 19 Blvd, Cannon falls, Mn 55009, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. The service was live streamed.
