William Emde, Jr., 95, of Branson.

William Emde, Jr., 95, of Branson, entered into rest on Thursday, June 26, 2025.

Bill was born on April 15, 1930, in St. Louis, Missouri, the second of two sons born to William Emde, Sr. and Sabina Emde. He spent his early childhood in St. Louis until the age of ten, when his father—joined by Bill and his older brother—moved the family to Corning, Arkansas. There, near the Black River, they settled on a farm where they raised cotton, milked cows, and cared for a variety of farm animals. Those early years instilled in Bill a lifelong respect for hard work and rural living.

In 1946, the family moved west to California in search of new opportunities. In 1951, Bill was drafted into the United States Army and assigned to the 24th Infantry Division, 19th Infantry Regiment. He served on the front lines of the Korean War from October 1951 through January 1952, where he was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart. Bill served with courage and humility—qualities that remained with him throughout his life.

After returning from the war, Bill began raising a family and eventually made his way back east to Missouri with his brother. In 1971, he settled in the Ozarks and opened a boat repair center, blending his mechanical skill with his passion for motors and watercraft. By 1974, he had built his own shop, laying the foundation for a life of craftsmanship, independence, and family pride.

Throughout his life, Bill cultivated a deep love for outdoor activities, including motorcycle racing, boat racing, water skiing, hunting, fishing, and ice skating. He enjoyed restoring old cars and trucks, always honoring the history each one held. Gardening was another labor of love—especially tending to his wild blackberry patch.

Above all, Bill adored spending time with his grandchildren, taking them on dune buggy rides and sharing in their laughter and wonder.  He also loved spending time with his friends and family. His bond with his brother was equally special, forged through a lifetime of shared memories and adventures.

Bill will be deeply missed by his family: children, Elaina Fields and husband Steven of Tyler, TX; Charmaine Land and husband Rod of Jefferson City, MO; and Darrin Shull and wife Gina of Forsyth, MO; along with ten grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Sabina Emde; his brother, Richard Emde, and sister-in-law, Bonnie Emde; and his beloved son, William Richard Emde.

Graveside services were held Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery in Branson, under the care of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson.