- Date Of Birth: December 11, 1928
- Date Of Death: May 9, 2022
- State: Indiana
Emerson “Em” Leo DeFord, 93, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully and in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family on Monday, May 9, 2022.
He was born on December 11, 1928, in Mishawaka to the late Russell DeFord and Ruth (Sheetz) DeFord. Emerson was a 1947 graduate of Jimtown High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1948 and served during the Korean Conflict until his honorable discharge in 1952.
He married Pauline O. Sanders on June 12, 1976. Surviving is his wife of 46 years, five children; Steven (Melissa) DeFord, Mark (Tina) DeFord; Laura (Kevin) Koon, Sherry (Patrick) Lee and Christine Bertrem; 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren survive as well. In addition to his parents, a son Dean DeFord and brother William “Bill” Lester preceded him in death.
Emerson was a master craftsman in the flute manufacturing industry, a business leader, the founder of The E.L. DeFord flute and piccolo Co. The Emerson Musical Instrument Co. & Custom Woodwinds Inc. He was well known as an advisor and consultant to the flute industry as well as an authority on flute design. Emerson designed many flutes for the handicapped players and is proud of his most recent flute design.
He donated flutes to many talented area musicians. He was still working into his 90’s.
Emerson DeFord was a member of VFW, American Legion, DAV and the Moose. Emerson was a Free Mason and a Shriner.
The family is grateful for the loving care provided by caregivers at Elara Caring and Grace Hospice of South Bend. They were a blessing, while everyday care was provided by his loving wife Pauline and their daughter Christine in the last year of life.
