Bradford John Emmelmann

On the morning of June 14th, 2015, Bradford John Emmelmann, 37, passed away peacefully with his family by his side at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford.  Brad leaves his beloved wife of 9 years, Erika (Dunn) Emmelmann, and precious daughters, Brooke and Skylar Emmelmann, at home. In addition he leaves his parents Peter and Patricia Emmelmann, brother Marc Emmelmann, Aunt Inga Rudd, Uncle Alan Rudd, cousins Tom Rudd and Stephanie Rudd, his special Uncle Kenny and Aunt Wendy, in-laws Edward and Phyllis Dunn, Justin Dunn, Kerri Dunn (Nate White), Allen and Elisabeth Johnson, Kathleen Wild, Susan Rera, Michelle Johnson, Ron Johnson many extended family members and his brothers and sisters at the CT Department of Corrections.  Brad proudly served many years at the CT Department of Corrections, received the rank of Lieutenant and was a member of the CERT team. Everyone knew Brad as a family man and peacemaker, so kind, so caring, and so protective; He was a gentle giant with an amazingly large heart who cared for everyone.  He was your protector, your friend, and wanted you to be safe and happy -- that's the Brad we all know. Brad wasn't just a peacemaker; he would lay his life down for you, he would be your hero. In 2014, Brad received the "Outstanding Citizen Award” for his Uncommon Courage, Bravery and Self-Sacrifice he exhibited when he helped pull a man out of a burning vehicle after a car collision outside his home. http://southwickpolice.com/citizens-and-officers-recognized. We were blessed to know Brad Emmelmann and the world was a better place because of him. Brad lived with a great love and passion for his family. His daughters and wife were everything to him. Brad made countless friends; his life was full of fun, laughter, and good times. He was always drawn to the great outdoors, from hunting and fishing to riding horses, quads and dirt bikes, to raising chickens and goats and building barns and decks. Brad knew how to live with a strong zeal for life. He loved coaching for both of his girls' soccer teams and loved gathering people together for parties and picnics. Our love for Brad will always B.E Strong - Brad Emmelmann Strong. We would like to express our gratitude to: CT Dept. of Corrections, Southwick Forastiere Funeral Home, Ross Knight Foundation, Cove Restaurant, and everyone that has provided support and love to his family. His family will receive friends on Thursday, June 18th from 2:00pm - 8:00pm at Southwick Forastiere Funeral Home located at 624 College Hwy, Southwick, MA. A Memorial Service will take place on Friday June 19th at 11:00am at Christ Lutheran Church located at 568 College Hwy. Southwick, MA. All are asked to go directly to the church. In lieu of flowers support for Brad Emmelmann's family can be made at:  www.youcaring.com/teambrad OR Emmelmann Family Memorial Fund, Berkshire Bank, 608 College Highway, Southwick, MA 01077.

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