Clair W. Emel, 85, of Bellefonte, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2024. Born on July 5, 1939, in Bellefonte, he was the son of the late Wilbur and Dessie (Kessling) Emel. On December 24, 1959, in Yarnell, he married Connie E. Boob, who survives at home.
Clair was a 1958 graduate of Bald Eagle Area High School. He retired as an Inspector for Sweetland Engineering. He was of the Methodist faith.
Clair joined the United States Marine Corp on July 1, 1958, and received his honorable discharge on June 30, 1964. He earned the rank of Cpl. and received the Good Conduct Medal (1st Award) and the Good Conduct (2nd Award) for his service. He was very proud to be a Marine and to serve this country.
Clair enjoyed working with his hands, especially woodworking. He created many crafts, especially whirly bird windmills and gave them to family and friends. He was a member of the Snow Shoe Rails to Trail where he enjoyed riding his four-wheeler. In his younger years, Clair enjoyed the quietness of hunting, fishing, and being outdoors, and going on traveling trips with Connie. Friends and family will remember Clair as a hard worker and never wanting to sit idle.
Along with his wife, Clair is survived by his children: Karen E. Emel of Howard, David W. Emel of Howard, and Jeff A. Emel and his wife, Jackie, of Pensacola, FL; four grandchildren: Troy Emel, Laura Bearden, Sam Emel, and Leana Emel and two great grandchildren: Michael and Phoenix. He is also survived by two brothers: Melvin Emel of Michigan and Sam Emel of Milesburg and two sisters: Nancy Richner of Howard and Helen Stitzel of Manheim.
Along with his parents, Clair was preceded in death by one grandson, Adam Emel.
There will be a visitation on Monday, September 16, 2024, from 10-11am followed with a memorial service at 11am at the Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, 201 Spring St. Milesburg, with Herb Emel officiating. Burial will be private at Advent Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516. (support.woundedwarriorproject.org)
Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc in Milesburg, PA. An online guest book can be signed or condolences to the family available at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com.