Gene's obituary
Dr. Eugene "Gene” Emahiser, Sr. was born April 03,1938 and passed away peacefully January 22, 2023, surrounded by his family.
Gene was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to parents Harold and Madeline (Schlaak) Emahiser. He had 1 sister, Geri, and 2 brothers, Paul and Korbe. His early years were spent in South Minneapolis, but his family eventually moved to an area just outside Moorhead, MN. Upon graduation from Barnesville High School, Gene joined the US Coast Guard, stationed for a time in the port of Duluth, MN. Where he served aboard the US Woodrush and spent time as a keeper at the Duluth South Breakwater Outer Light. He was an active member of their competitive marksmanship program. After his time of active duty, Gene served in the US Coast Guard Reserve and eventually in the US Army National Guard, retiring with the rank of master sergeant. In the early to mid-1970's, Gene was a nationally ranked marksman, serving on both the rifle and pistol teams representing MN in competitions across the country. Even after leaving national competition, he stayed active in the local shooting community for many years after.
Gene was a lifelong learner earning a master’s degree in Music theory. He later studied to be an educator, ultimately receiving his doctorate from the University of South Dakota. He brought his passion as a scholar to schools not only in Minnesota, but in the Dakotas, Wyoming, Texas, Georgia and even central Canada His early career was spent primarily in underserved schools located on Native American reservations and later he turned his attention to charter schools. He often talked of his time teaching in Canada as one of his best achievements, establishing and developing one of Canada's largest and most disciplined marching bands.
An avid writer, Gene spent many a day working away on his computer to create amusing short stories, occasionally posting them in his local newspaper. Later in his years, he developed a passion for achieving longevity through natural supplements and other non-pharmaceutical treatments. That passion led him to long hours of research, which he then would reduce to concise, but well sourced papers that he freely shared with friends.
Gene had passions, deep desires, on a near romantic level for a few things. He loved spending time in his boat, often regaling family and friends of amazing adventures while at sea. His deep love for the music of the classical composers was known by all who knew him. He loved to cook, constantly expressing both his creativity and love through a new recipe or an interesting twist on an old one.
Gene had deeply held convictions and a faith in God that inspired a bold sharing of his beliefs. His faith and convictions informed his world view and understanding of the human condition. He knew a God that had shown mercy and supplied grace in his life, and it empowered him to share that experience with those around him. He regularly attended services at his local church, weekly bible studies and was a member of the Gideons International.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Geri and brother Korbe. He is survived by his wife Martha, daughter Madeline, sons Steven, Gene and Harold. He had 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
A service celebrating his life will be held at 1pm on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at the Lindford Christian Fellowship Church, 7521 Town Road 93, Littlefork, MN 56653. Interment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on a date yet to be determined.
Memorials are preferred to be sent to Lindford Christian Fellowship Church.