With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Marvella Mae Emerick, a long-time resident of Fort Morgan, Colorado.  She was born on November 20, 1932 on a farm outside of Pringle, South Dakota, to Frank Van Buren and Gladys Willey.  Both parents preceded her in death along with her brother Malvin Van Buren.  She passed away on May 22, 2025 in Centennial, Colorado.

Marvella spent her early education years in Custer, South Dakota, and she continued throughout her life to maintain the friendships she made in school.  Marvella married George J. Emerick in Custer on January 26, 1952; he preceded her in death on August 16, 2016.  She was a proud and loving mother to three surviving children; Susanne, Cheryl (Frank) and Brad (Stephanie) Emerick.  As her family grew over the years, she became a devoted "Gram" to grandchildren Justin, Tachen, Kelcie, Rebecca, Jennifer and Victoria followed by 13 great grandchildren.  She is also survived by a brother Dale Van Buren and his wife Diane.

Marvella was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Ft Morgan, where she sang in the choir and played hand bells.  She volunteered many hours in support of the church and its various activities.  Her Christian faith was strong.  She was engaged in the Fort Morgan community as a small business owner and enjoyed memberships in the Red Hat Club and the Hobby Club where she made many cherished friends.

Marvella was an amazing woman.  She loved music, dancing, travel, movies, books and playing bridge.  She was a loyal friend and loved to socialize.  She made others a priority in her life and exuded love and kindness.  Marvella was blessed with the rare ability to fully accept her loved ones as they were.  She listened intently to other's joys and sorrows and provided support and encouragement.  Kindness to family, friends and neighbors was evident when she shared produce from her garden, gave flowers, sent special cards or visited someone in need.  After a visit with Marvella, one often walked away feeling heard and special.

Her legacy will live through the love she gave, the family she cherished and the lives she touched.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 30th at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1215 W. 7th Ave. in Fort Morgan with interment in Riverside Cemetery in Fort Morgan. Visitation will be prior to the service at 1:00 PM

We thank you for the prayers and support given by friends and the medical community.  Donations in Marvella's memory can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 1215 W. 7th Ave, Fort Morgan CO 80701.