Donald Emerson

DONALD ALLEN EMERSON

Cedar Rapids

Donald Allen Emerson, 91, of Cedar Rapids, died Saturday, July 6, 2019, at his home following a brief illness. A short graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 13, at Mount Calvary Cemetery by Deacon Jim Berger. Friends and family are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life luncheon for Don immediately following the graveside

service at Teahen Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids.

Don is survived by his wife of 71 years, Betty; five children, Randy (Mary Jo) of Iowa City, Don (Eileen) of Bettendorf, Roxanne Issacson and Devin and Theresa (Dave) McLaughlin, all of Cedar Rapids; 11 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Leonard Jr.; sister, Marilyn McNamara; and granddaughter, Jodi Emerson.

Donald was born July 18, 1927, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Leonard and Ruby Hall Emerson. He married Betty LaVelle on May 1, 1948, in Cedar Rapids. Don served in the Navy during World War II. Don was a hard-working man holding various positions in the construction field, farming and retired from Coca-Cola in 1990.

Throughout his life, Don enjoyed all sports. In his younger years, he was especially fond of playing basketball and softball. Later in life, his favorite teams were the Iowa State Cyclones and the New England Patriots.

Don was especially proud of his construction craftmanship and built two homes for Betty and their five children.

Although his greatest pleasure in life was spending time with family, he adored his many pets throughout the years. He will be especially missed by his dog, Prince; and cat, Lucky.

Instead of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.

Online condolences can be left at www.teahenfuneralhome.com.