Emma Markum, 73

Emma Jane Markum, 73, of Jones, died Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo following a long illness. She was born in Johnstown, Pa. on May 8, 1942 the daughter of the late Ray and Ruth (Weirick) Alwine. She graduated from high school in Pennsylvania, and later earned her Masters’ Degree in Computer Science and Business Management. She was married to William John Markum on July 20, 1963, and they moved to Jones in 1966. William died in 1981. Emma worked briefly at HRM in Kalamazoo before advancing her education at Southwestern Michigan Community College. She was later employed by the college for 18 years, retiring as coordinator of computer technology. She was married to Wilbur Wurtsbaugh in September of 1982. They were later divorced. Emma attended the Newberg Bible Church, and enjoyed the time she spent with family, friends, and church members.

Emma is survived by a son, Daniel J. Markum of Jones; two step-sons, Scott Wurtsbaugh of Galesburg and Skipp (Heather) Wurtsbaugh of Elkhart, Ind.; two step-daughters, Hana VanOsdol of Decatur and Heidi (Marc) Hopkins of South Bend, Ind.; 10 grandchildren; two brothers, Robert Alwine of Murrysville, Pa. and Ronald (Sandy) Alwine of Johnstown, Pa.; two sisters, LaVon (Leonard) Adams and Shirley (Phil) Moyer both of Johnstown, Pa.; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, William Markum; a son, Edward J. Markum; and by two brothers, Ray and Kenneth Alwine.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has been conducted. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 1 at the First Baptist Church of Newberg with Pastor Mike Owen officiating. Interment will follow at Poe Cemetery. Arrangements were by the Eickhoff Farrand Halverson Chapel of Three Rivers. It is suggested that memorials be directed to the Newberg Township Ambulance Service, P.O. Box 257, Jones, MI 49061. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.efhchapel.com.