Emily W. Wettlaufer

1923 - 2024

Wettlaufer, Emily W. (nee Warren)

Jul 21, 1923 - May 13, 2024

A vibrant soul who lived life to the fullest, passed away peacefully at the age of 100. Her journey was filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished forever. Emily's early life was marked by dedication and hard work. After graduating from Dobbs in 1942, she contributed to the war effort by working on the airplane assembly line for Curtis Wright Corp. This led to a role at The Hewett Rubber Co., where she became the personnel manager of their self-sealing fuel cell plant, overseeing all-women assembly lines. Towards the end of the war, Emily moved to New York City to work for American Airlines at LaGuardia Field as a supervisor in reservations. Her career concluded back in Buffalo as a professional staff member of the Girl Scouts of Buffalo and Erie County. In 1950, Emily married Conrad Taylor Wettlaufer, who passed away in 1989. Together, they built a beautiful family. She is survived by her three sons: Warren Wettlaufer, Denis Wettlaufer, and Kim Wettlaufer. Emily was a proud grandmother to Georgia, Taylor, Miles, and Leila Wettlaufer. She was also a stepmother to C Penn Wettlaufer, who passed away in 2000 at the age of 65, and his five children: Alex, Becky, Jennifer, Elizabeth, Tally, and Gina, along with four great-grandchildren. Emily's passion for life was evident in her many hobbies and interests. A world-class golfer and skier, she traveled the globe playing golf in iconic locations such as Scotland and Spain. She lived in Aspen the year it opened and was one of the first woman on the National Ski Patrol, breaking barriers and setting new standards for women in sports. Her creativity knew no bounds. Emily was skilled in crochet, quilting, painting, and sculpting. Her pastels of dogs, cats, and especially golden retrievers were cherished by many. Emily was also a dedicated volunteer, serving on various boards and committees, including the Elmwood Franklin School, Buffalo General Hospital, Buffalo Public Library, and the Community Foundation of Greater Buffalo, where she was the first woman chair. Her commitment to her community was unwavering, and she served as an Elder and Trustee at the First Presbyterian Church of Buffalo. Emily was a no-nonsense woman with a loving heart. She was known for her strength, determination, and unwavering support for her family and friends. Whether making a hole-in-one or skiing down the best slopes in the world, Emily embraced every moment with enthusiasm and grace. Her presence was a force to be reckoned with, and her impact on those who knew her will never be forgotten. Her grandson, Taylor, fondly recalls their Sunday calls, cherishing Emily's words of encouragement and unwavering support that lifted him through challenging times. Her guidance and love will be deeply missed. Having lived to the remarkable age of 100, Emily outlived many of the greats. She witnessed the rise of everything from the Model T Ford to the iPhone, self-driving cars, and even virtual reality. Her life was a testament to enduring change with grace and curiosity. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice Buffalo in Emily's honor. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her legacy of kindness, strength, and creativity will continue to inspire future generations. This is not a goodbye, but a 'see you down the road'.