Emil John Soderquist

Emil John Soderquist (1933–2025)

Emil John Soderquist, 91, of Wharton, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Methodist Hospital in Sugar Land. He lived an exemplary life, marked by dedication, service, and love for his family – inspired by his relationship with Jesus.

Born on September 17, 1933, in Ganado, Texas, to the late Charles A. and Helen Sliva O’Neal. Emil’s mother moved to Houston in 1935 after his father was killed in a farming accident. She later married John Richard Soderquist, his adoptive father, and lived in Pasadena, Texas. After graduation at Pasadena High School, Emil enlisted and served honorably in the United States Air Force, stationed in Okinawa.

On July 28, 1963, he married his beloved, Sally Watson, at First Baptist Church in Rosenberg, Texas -- sharing nearly six decades of marriage until her passing on August 4, 2022. Emil devoted over 48 years to public service with the State of Texas, primarily as State Trooper with the Department of Public Safety, where his commitment to serving others left a lasting legacy.

A man of simple joys, Emil cherished his family, enjoying the opportunity to travel and spend time together on family vacations. He always supported the achievements and various endeavors of his wife and children in selfless manner. His warm presence and steadfast devotion to those he loved will be deeply missed.

In addition to his parents and wife, Emil was preceded in death by his brother, Melvin Lee O’Neal.

Emil is survived by his three sons: Dennis Morgan Soderquist and wife Cheryl of Wimberley; Walter Jones Soderquist and wife Anjie of Wharton and John Timothy Soderquist and wife Suzanne of Magnolia.

He leaves behind a cherished legacy in his grandchildren: Ethan Soderquist and wife Erica; Emily (Soderquist) Reyna and husband Daniel; Erin (Soderquist) Jansky and wife Elizabeth; Janelle (Soderquist) Cook and husband Justin; Jordan Soderquist and Nickolas Soderquist, along with his great-grandchildren: Kimber, Kaisley, Kolt, Olivette, Rosaleigh and Waylon.

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A Celebration of Life will be held at 2pm, Saturday, August 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Wharton officiated by Bro. Tony Wishert, with a reception following at the church afterwards. Funeral services are under the direct supervision of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com