Emerson H. Shank ,Jr.

Emerson H. Shank Jr. of St. Augustine, Florida, left this world on September 18, 2023, but not before leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. Born and raised in the charming town of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, Emerson's journey through life was as unique as it was full of humor and love. Emerson's adventure began on November 4, 1937, and after a long and vibrant life, he decided it was time to tee off on his next great journey. He spent four adventurous years in the Air Force, a career that whisked him away to the rolling hills of England, where he kept a watchful eye on some rather explosive company - atomic bombs, with his faithful companion, Rex. While we can't confirm if he ever told those bombs a good joke to lighten the mood, we can attest that he certainly knew how to bring laughter to our lives. After his service, Emerson settled down to work in the aluminum industry, and the metal world was never the same again. He entered the business with his "Can" do attitude and left the industry as VP of Sales for VAW Aluminum where he worked for 50 Years. He was known around the company as “Living Legend”, Talk about a lustrous career! He was a dedicated husband for 58 years to the love of his life, Mrs. Joan Shank. Together, they embarked on a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and the occasional spirited game of golf. Emerson's passion for golf was legendary. He was a proud member of the Marsh Creek Country Club, where he mastered the art of swinging a club. Though his name was Shank, that was one thing you'd never see Emerson do on the course! Fishing was another of his great loves, especially when he had the chance to cast a line with his sons, Scott and Keith. Together, they created a sea of memories that will forever be cherished. Emerson was known for being quite the conversationalist, and if you ever had the pleasure of sharing a chat with him, you'd agree he could spin a yarn with the best of them. His humor was as boundless as his heart, and his love knew no bounds. He was a wonderfully caring and attentive husband, father, and grandfather, always there with a comforting word or a well-timed joke. Emerson leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to ripple through the generations. He is survived by his wife, Joan Shank; children, Scott Shank and wife Kathy, and Keith Shank and wife Danielle, his grandchildren, Toby and wife Katie, Tyson and wife Lauren, Kayla, Dalton, and Dylan, will forever remember his wisdom and wit. Emerson's great-grandchildren, Ella, Rhett, Remmi, and Emory, will grow up hearing stories of their loving great-grandfather's adventures and a cousin, Terry Shank and his wife Laura. In addition to his immediate family, Emerson is survived by his siblings, Gloria White and husband Ed, Randy Shank, and Diane Perry. He joins his parents, Emerson H. Shank and Mary Mathis, in the great clubhouse in the sky. Emerson H. Shank Jr. - a man who lived life with humor, love, and an unshakable zest for the game. Farewell to a legend. Private services were held. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/donate/prospects-tssl.html?frequency_selected=0&sc_icid=impactgiving-donate-bttn-top

Emerson H. Shank ,Jr.

November 4, 1937 - September 18, 2023