Lewis Gary Emmons

Lewis Gary Emmons, age 79, of Sparta, MI, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2023 with his children lovingly by his side. Lew was born on April 19, 1944 to Howard and Dora Emmons. Alongside his younger sisters, Lew spent his childhood growing up in both Sparta and Florida. Upon graduating from Sparta High School and serving in the National Guard, Lew and Paula married, started their family and established Emmons Supermarket in downtown Sparta which was in operation for 25 years. His customers, community and employees were a meaningful part of his life. Lew entered a partnership with Great Day and then finished his Spartan grocery career with Family Fare. For many years, Lew served his community as a board member of Sparta State Bank/ Choice One Bank. In his spare time, Lew enjoyed spending time at Kimball Lake with family and friends. He spent his retirement years in Vero Beach, Florida. Lew was loved by all who met him. His positive outlook, generous spirit, and kind heart left an impression wherever he went. He never met a stranger who didn’t quickly become a friend; he always went out of his way to help anyone in need and had an incredible work ethic that will forever be remembered. He cared deeply for those around him through his kindness and compassion. Lew made an impact by being a father figure to many. He will truly be missed in so many ways. Lew was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Dora; brother, Michael Emmons; brother-in-law, Donald Johnson; brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Barb Boros; and nephew, Paul Boros. Lew is survived by his son, Tim Emmons (Jera); daughter, Angela (Tim) May; grandchildren, Ross (Morgan) Hudson, Max Hudson (Kenzie), Ella Emmons, Ashleigh and Rob Shue; and great-grandchildren, Callie and Dane Hudson; first wife, Paula Emmons; sisters, Joan Johnson, Sue (Bob) Palma, Sally (Steve) Clark, Joyce Morin; and current wife, Paulette Emmons; her children and grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; close friends and past employees who were also considered family to him. Words cannot express how grateful we are for the kindness and compassion of Lew’s caregivers, throughout his journey with Parkinson’s. We will be forever thankful for Suzie Helsen, Chris Ford, Terri Cegalis, Deb Reister, Interim Hospice, especially nurse Lynsey, for their care, devotion and love. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the wonderful angels at Newaygo County Compassion Home, especially Brandee, Diane, and Kristie. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 13, at 2 p.m. at MKD Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Drive NE, Belmont, MI. A private family burial will be held at Lisbon Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family, prior to service, on Thursday from 12-2 p.m. at MKD Stegenga Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to Newaygo County Compassion Home.