John M. Emerson, 62, of East Moline, IL, passed away Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Hope Creek Care Center, East Moline. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

John was born March 1, 1963, in Chicago, IL, the son of Archibald and Maria Bertleff Emerson. He married Tina Markus. They later divorced.   He worked for Auto States Transmission Parts for nearly 20 years.

Survivors include his son, Jason Emerson, Walcott, IA, and Kyle Emerson (Maria Gardner) East Moline; 3 grandchildren; his mother, Maria Emerson, East Moline; and a brother, Bob (Laura) Emerson, East Moline.

He is preceded in death by his father and siblings, Katharine Lindle (Craig Lindle) and Patti Long.

Memorials may be made to the family.

John was a man of great passion, humor, and heart. A devoted NASCAR enthusiast, he proudly cheered on his favorite driver, Jeff Gordon, and never missed a WWE match. He loved spending time outdoors, especially playing frisbee golf, discovering new fishing spots, and hunting for mushrooms. A true music lover, John had a special talent for the game "Name That Song and Band," playfully teasing you when you got it wrong, then joyfully revealing the answer—or lighting up with excitement when you got it right. His laughter was infectious, his spirit vibrant, and his love for life and those around him was unmistakable. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.