Emily Ann Carkhuff died Oct. 8, 2023, at the age of 92 in Davenport. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Emily was born on March 22, 1931, to William & Anna Vansice in Independence Township, Jasper County, Iowa. She grew up in Jasper County with her four brothers and two sisters. She later met and married Arthur Carkhuff on Dec. 28, 1948, in Marshalltown. Between 1949 and 1959 Art & Emily had seven children, two sons and four daughters. She was known for her love of fishing, and playing cards, an avid book reader, morning breakfast with the girls at the old Holiday Inn in Burlington, Friday night date night with Art in Fort Madison at El Zarape’, and the multitude of ears she has nibbled through the years.
Emily Ann Carkhuff touched the lives of many with her steadfastness in preaching the good news of God’s Kingdom as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses since her baptism in February 1965. Emily made it her aim to live the life of a God-fearing woman, and her life demonstrated her love of God and neighbor. She had a warm and generous heart, always willing to lend a helping hand and bring joy to those around her.
Emily will be dearly missed by her sisters Janice & Bette and brother James Vansice, her children Diana (Ronald) Eckburg, Eunice Carkhuff, "Betsy" Elizabeth Carkhuff, "Becky" Rebecca Carkhuff, "Arnie" Arnold Carkhuff, Nina Carkhuff, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who lovingly called her "GiGi".
She is preceded in death by her parents William & Anna Vansice, her brothers William, Kenneth, and Merrill, her first husband Art, her second husband James, her son “Bud” Arthur Carkhuff III, granddaughter Brandi Evans, and her grandson Aaron Eckburg.
A memorial service will be held via Zoom, with a link to the Zoom webpage to be announced. Friends and family are invited to join us in remembering Emily and sharing their cherished memories. Private family interment was held at Greenwood Cemetery.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered their condolences and support during this difficult time. Your love and kindness are greatly appreciated.
Emily may be gone from our sight but will remain in our hearts until we can see her again.
A memorial has been established for the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Davenport.
Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.