TROTWOOD, OH — Harold Stanley Emery (Hal) age 69, died February 13, 2020 at his home in Trotwood, Ohio, encircled by his loving family. Born January 14, 1951 in Germany where his father was in the service, Hal grew up in Lebanon, New Hampshire. He interrupted pre-med school at the University of New Hampshire to enlist in the Army to serve in the Vietnam Conflict. Hal was very proud of his military service as part of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). During his tour in Vietnam he earned several awards and decorations, most notable were the Combat Infantryman Badge, Purple Heart and Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for Valor. He spent many months recovering at the Chelsea Naval Hospital, from the wounds he received while stationed in Cambodia and the rest of his life dealing valiantly with the physical and mental pain these wounds caused.
Hal worked as a safety officer on oil rigs all over the world and had a small electronics business after receiving a bachelor’s degree in electronics. His love of anything electronics stayed with him until the end, including always having the newest electronic device.
He loved animals and animals loved him back. The animals on the farm really helped him to deal with his PTSD. His favorite cat, “When”, could always be found curled up with Hal or riding on his walker, meowing out directions as he pushed her along. His interests included playing guitars and drums, photography, playing video games, watching his favorite TV shows, riding his favorite horse “Zena”, kayaking, and flying drones. He was a member of the Montgomery County Ohio Horsemen’s Council and enjoyed drum circle at Windsong Healing Arts.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Ravndal-Emery, his sister, Evelyn Jaros (Rick), his son Jesse Emery (Julie), stepdaughters, Lindsay Osterman (Andrew), Jaclyn Cooper (Ben), Meredith Sterling (Andrew) and Christianne Dreyer. Grandchildren David, Jacob, and Mhrrisa Emery, Matthew Stemska, Sebastian and Gabriel Emond, Alexandra and William Osterman, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Stanley and Emilie Emery, his daughter Heather Emery, and his niece Brandi Wilson.
Hal will be remembered for his courage, helpfulness, wit and his kind mischief and practical jokes. A celebration of his life is being planned at Bright Spirit Farms in Trotwood, Ohio in the summer.
Professional arrangements entrusted to W. E. Lusain Funeral Home, http://www.lusainmemorial.com/dayton.htm .