Alfons Emge

1940 - 2023

Alfons Emge
August 16, 1940 - March 18, 2023
Gig Harbor, Washington - Alfons Emge, 82, of Gig Harbor, passed away peacefully at home in the loving presence of family on March 18, 2023, from peritoneal mesothelioma.
Alfons was born on August 16, 1940, to Maria and Heinrich Emge in Elversberg, Germany. At the age of 14 he began working as a coal miner, navigating perilous working conditions for 12 years. In July 1970 he immigrated to the United States with three children, suitcases filled mostly with home goods, and $200. His first job was painting the City of Lakewood water tower, followed by a 30-year-long career as an auto body technician. He was also a semi-professional soccer player and coached girls' and boys' soccer teams, traveling with them to Germany to compete. He was fiercely competitive.
In 1989 Alfons married his beloved wife Terri. Together they grew a large blended family which also included many furry and feathered companions. In 2002 Alfons completed a degree in Architectural Woodworking/Cabinet Making Technology at Bates Technical College and started his own custom cabinetry business in 2005. He loved the craft, and in addition to building custom cabinets for clients, he also completed many furniture projects for family and friends. He was most proud of a set of jewelry boxes he made as gifts. In addition to woodworking, Alfons had many hobbies and interests, including soccer, fishing, and hunting.
Despite difficult beginnings, Alfons worked hard to build a life he was proud of. This was evident in his adoration for Terri and the pride he had in his children's accomplishments. He always encouraged them to not let the fear of failure stop them from following their dreams. He will be remembered for his determination, resilience, and playfulness. Alfons had an uncanny ability to excel at everything he put his efforts towards, creating joy and beauty with his hands and his heart. He lived a truly remarkable life with a spirit of gratitude.
Alfons is survived by his wife, Terri Emge, his children, Berni (Anna) Esseln, Jorg (Erin) Esseln, Christine (Dave) Anderson, Jeffrey Powell, Andrea (Adam) Baker, Whitney (Caitlin) Emge, and Rebecca Emge, six grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He is predeceased by two brothers and one sister, and survived by four sisters. He is also survived by his dear friend Dan Pollard.
Please join us in celebrating Alfons' life on Sunday, May 7th, at 2:00 PM, at University Place Presbyterian Church, 8101 27th Street West, University Place, WA 98466. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (https://www.fredhutch.org/en.html) or The Human Society for Tacoma & Pierce County (https://www.thehumanesociety.org/).