After a long illness, Emil Ferkovich, age 85, peacefully passed away surrounded by those he loved on February 6, 2015 at his home. Emil was born on August 5, 1929, to Joe and Ella Ferkovich inKlein, MT and grew up in Hysham, MT.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sharon; daughter Debbie (Randy) Mende; grandsons Riley and John (Stephanie) Mende; great-grandson Jace; and sister, Terry. He was preceded in death by daughter Therese and grandson Bradley, brothers: Joe, Matt, Jimmy and sister Katherine.
Emil had great joy and zest for life. He had a smile and a laugh that lit up any room where he was present. There was nothing Emil loved more than his family. Kindness and compassion were Emil’s greatest gifts. He will be missed by all.
As a young man, Emil served his country in the U.S. Navy on two occasions. He was a veteran of the Korean War. When he returned home from the military, he enrolled in the University of Montana in Missoula where he earned a B.S. Degree in Business Administration.
It was while in university that Emil met the love of his life, Sharon Dalling. They were married on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1956 in Butte Montana. On this wedding day was born Emil and Sharon’s life-long enjoyment of Irish music and dancing. It was easy to get both of them up dancing and singing as soon as an Irish tune was heard. They traveled to Ireland on two occasions visiting the entire country. Being a pair of wanderers, they traveled to Germany, Austria, Italy, and Croatia (where Emil found and met his father’s family). Everywhere they went, they enjoyed the people they met.
Emil began working in the insurance business in San Fernando Valley, CA in 1957. In 1961 he started his own independent adjusting company in Downey, CA. From 1973-1978 Emil with his family, moved to Kalispell, MT where Emil owned and operated five bars/restaurants as well as acquiring a real estate license. After moving back to California, Emil started his own independent company in 1981 (E&F Adjusting) which he sold in 1993.
Emil retired in Oceanside. Emil greatly loved the game of golf and spent many happy days golfing with family and friends. A faithful fan of his grandsons’ sports teams, he was always there to cheer them on.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with these services and condolences may be sent by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
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