James L. Emerson

James L. “Jim” Emerson, 78, Crown Point, IN, passed away November 6, 2023, with family members by his side. Survived by loving wife, Ellen (Weeks) Emerson, daughter Christa Emerson, son Rob (Beth) Emerson, their mother and former spouse Sharon Troxel Swihart, grandsons Troy (Katie) and Kade Borlick, granddaughters Iris and Hazel Emerson, sister Vicki (Rich Jewell), brother Larry Emerson (Jan), sister in law Paula Weeks Jusko, step daughters Aubrey Easton (Jaime Venegas) and Alyssa Miller (Finley), and step grandchildren Camilla, Jaimito, Isabelle and Madelyn, and other loving nephews, niece, family members and friends. He is also survived by his beloved dog and best pal, Houdini. Jim was preceded in death by parents, William and Virginia (Johnson) Emerson, and by his wife, Melinda Hathaway Emerson. Jim was born in Hammond and grew up in Gary’s Glen Park neighborhood, graduating in the Class of 1963 from Lew Wallace High School. After graduation he started his career in the trust department at Gary National Bank (Gainer/NBD/Chase) where he eventually became a Vice President and the head of the mortgage loan department. In retirement Jim worked for Habitat for Humanity where his woodworking talents and creative eye were put to use making displays and repairing donated items. He was passionate about his endeavors to renovate the old Lake County Jail and was particularly knowledgeable about Dillinger and Sheriff Lillian Holly history. He served on the Old Sheriff's House Foundation and gave many tours of the jail as well as appearing in television documentary episodes. He was an avid collector of historical photos of Lake and Porter County and always enjoyed taking photos and collecting antique items as hobbies. Jim will be greatly missed by his family and friends and will be remembered for his quick wit, his hardworking and friendly nature, and his many creative talents. According to Jim's wishes there will be no service. Family is considering a future Celebration of Life. If you wish to make a memorial donation in his name, please consider Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana or the Old Sheriff's House Foundation (designated specifically to the Old Lake County Jail), or any charity of your choice. Burns Funeral Home, Crown Point entrusted with arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com

James L. Emerson

April 27, 1945 - November 6, 2023