Emily Ann Carkhuff

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Emily Ann Carkhuff, on October 8, 2023 at the age of 92 in Davenport, Iowa.  She passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

Emily Ann Carkhuff was born on March 22, 1931 to William & Anna Vansice in Independence Township, Jasper County, Iowa. She grew up in Jasper County with her four brothers and two sisters. She later met and married Arthur Carkhuff on December 28, 1948 in Marshalltown, Iowa. Between 1949-1959 Art & Emily had 7 children, 2 sons and 4 daughters. She was known for her love of fishing, playing cards, an avid book reader, morning breakfast with the girls at the old Holiday Inn in Burlington, Friday night date night with Art in Fort Madison at El Sarape’, and the multitude of ears she has nibbled through the years.

Emily Ann Carkhuff touched the lives of many with her steadfastness in preaching the good news of God’s Kingdom as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses since her baptism in February 1965.  Emily made it her aim to live the life of a God Fearing woman, and her life demonstrated her love of God and neighbor. She had a warm and generous heart, always willing to lend a helping hand and bring joy to those around her.

Emily Ann Carkhuff will be dearly missed by her sisters Janice & Bette and brother James Vansice, her children Diana (Ronald) Eckburg, Eunice Carkhuff, "Betsy" Elizabeth Carkhuff, "Becky" Rebecca Carkhuff, Nina Carkhuff, "Arnie" Arnold Carkhuff, numerous grandchildren, and great grandchildren who lovingly called her GiGi. 

She is preceded in death by her parents William & Anna Vansice, her brothers William, Kenneth and Merrill, her first husband Art, her second husband James, her son “Bud” Arthur Carkhuff III, granddaughter Brandi Evans and grandson Aaron Eckburg.

A memorial service will be held via Zoom on Saturday October 28th, 2023 at 4:00 PM. The webpage is www.zoom.us with meeting ID 935 5817 0592 and password 905385. Friends and family are invited to join us in remembering Emily and sharing their cherished memories. Private family interment was held at Greenwood Cemetery.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered their condolences and support during this difficult time. Your love and kindness are greatly appreciated.

Emily may be gone from our sight, but will remain in our hearts until we can see her again.

A memorial has been established for Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Davenport.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.