Donald Eugene Emmerling, 94, of East Liverpool, Ohio, passed away in California on September 12, 2026. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Esther (Watson) Emmerling, who passed away on June 18, 2020.

Donald and Esther deeply loved and cherished their family and treasured the time they spent together. They enjoyed taking walks in the parks near their home, appreciating the beauty of nature, and feeding the birds from their back porch. These simple joys reflected the love, kindness, and appreciation for life that they shared throughout their years together.

Donald is survived by his two sons, Michael (Irene) Emmerling of Cleveland, Ohio, and Kim (Kim) Emmerling of Riverside, California. He is also survived by his sister, Zoe (Emmerling) Faloon; his brother in-law, Sam Watson; and his sister in-law, Sally Watson Brahm, all of East Liverpool, Ohio.

Donald and Esther were blessed with seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Their loving and kind spirits will live through the generations of family they leave behind, along with the many cherished memories of a life built on love, togetherness, and family.

Donald and Esther Emmerling will be remembered together at a memorial service on October 17, 2026, at The Martin Chapel of Care Funeral & Cremation in Calcutta. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 12:00 p.m. A graveside service will follow at Calcutta Cemetery where both Donald and Esther will be laid to rest together. A light luncheon will be served at the funeral home following graveside services.