Obituary of Thomas R. Emdy

Age 76, of Bloomington, passed away April 26, 2017. Proceeded in death by parents William and Molly Emdy and daughter Deborah Bockbrader. He is survived by his wife Carol: children Anita Harper and Gregory Braatz: grandchildren Alex, Elizabeth and Lili Braatz: sisters Susan Weber and Lorna Emdy and brother James Emdy. After H.S. graduation in 1958, Tom joined the Air Force, serving from ’58 to 66’. He was a linguist and intelligence analyst at several stations in Germany. He flew in C-130s from Germany to Turkey, listening to the Russian military during the Cold War. The bonds he formed with his Air Force buddies lasted a lifetime. As an Air Force retiree, he has been active in “Freedom Through Vigilance Association” and the “Berlin Island” association. For 43 years Tom he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. Carol and Tom traveled extensively in Europe. He was an expert in European history. He knew every hockey team and statistic and watched every game. He loved walking his beloved Cavaliers. Tom was known for his great sense of humor. During retirement Tom has thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at the VEAP food shelf and Bridging. He was generous and nothing made him happier than helping other people. Funeral service Wednesday, May 3, 11 AM at Portland Ave United Methodist Church 8000 Portland Ave. So. Bloomington. Visitation will be at 10 AM with lunch following the service. In lieu of flowers prefer memorials to Bridging or VEAP.