It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Emil Hirsch Jr. Born on September 18, 1949, Emil departed from this life on January 1, 2024, leaving behind a rich tapestry of memories and achievements.

Emil is survived by his son, also named Emil Hirsch, his daughter Kristen Hirsch, and his grandson Kayden Phillips. His legacy of love, wisdom, and resilience will continue to live on through his family and the many lives he touched. Emil was a man of exceptional character, known for his wit, humor, knowledge, dedication, intelligence, and a unique personality that made him truly one-of-a-kind. He may have been hard to love at times, but he always meant well to those he considered friends. 

As a testament to his belief in lifelong learning, one of Emil's most valuable lessons was the idea that people can always embrace new knowledge. He led by example, never shying away from seeking out new experiences and insights. At the end of his life, he was always learning about physics, space, and other scientific topics. Despite that, he always believed that he would go to heaven after he died and that he would once again see his mom and dad, as well as his dogs, Beau and Wolfie, whom he loved dearly. Emil was a loving soul when it came to animals and his tenderness was always on display. He left behind his dog Pepper, whom he rescued, and two wonderful cats, who were also rescues, Sammie and Pewter. He gave them the best life any pet could ask for and he truly enjoyed them. He always said he could never understand how people could hurt pets because they gave us unconditional love. As his health declined, all he was worried about was them after he left. 

Emil's accomplishments speak volumes about his commitment to service and community. He served in the military for 21 years, demonstrating courage and dedication both in Vietnam and in his role as an Army nurse. He was very active in his Harley Davidson groups, which often assisted with veteran projects. He also was always trying to keep his Vietnam buddies connected and would dedicate his own time to coordinate reunions around the nation. His service and contributions will always be remembered with the utmost respect and gratitude.

If you knew Emil, he most likely told you about the prestigious Army Calvary unit he served in—2/17 Cav, 101st Airborne Division. He was very proud to have been a helicopter mechanic and work with those in that unit. In a twist of fate, his son, Emil Hirsch III, would serve with the 101st Airborne Division in Iraq, which made Emil proud to have a family lineage of soldiers who served in what he considered one of the most prestigious Army units to date. 

Emil's legacy was founded on connection and love. With a warm heart and diligent care, he always made an effort to stay in touch with his friends and become the force that brought people together. His impact was profound, and the void left by his passing reminds us that we will never know another person quite like Emil. His quirks made him who he was and if you were close enough to him, you know exactly what that means. 

As we remember Emil  Hirsch Jr., let us celebrate the life he lived, the lessons he shared, and the lasting legacy he left behind. May he rest in peace.

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