Emily C. Lathrop

Emily C. Lathrop, 91, formerly of Metamora, passed away at 12:15pm, Wednesday, June 13, 2018, at the home of her daughter Tami.

She was born on October 9, 1926 in Chicago the daughter of the late Edward and Lillian Babka Cesal.  She married Jess Lathrop on April 15, 1948 in Dundee, IL. He passed away on August 11, 2016. Also preceding her in death were three sisters. Emily was the last of that generation and is deeply felt by all of us.

Surviving are her children, Teri (Mickey) Wittekiend of Washington, Brad (Debbie) Lathrop of Pekin and Tami Strickfaden of East Peoria.  Also surviving are 5 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren.

She had previously volunteered in the Gift Shop of the Pekin Hospital where she and her husband participated annually in a fundraiser for the Pekin Hospital Gift Shop. Emily also loved making flower arrangements for the patients of the hospital.

Her favorite hobby was bird watching.  She would spend hours watching the many birds she attracted to her home with a wide variety of bird feeders.  In her younger years she also enjoyed bowling.  Emily and her husband were avid square dancers as well. They were well traveled, having traveled to Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean and Africa.

Private graveside services will be held at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in rural Morton.  Pastor Chip Herbert will officiate.  There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Illinois Chapter.  To share memories and condolences with the family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.