Emil W. Dettmering

Emil W. Dettmering, 84 passed away peacefully with family by his side at his home in Matteson IL. On April 7th, 2026.

Emil was born and raised on the same farm in Matteson IL. in which he passed from. His was very proud to carry on the legacy of his Father Emil Dettmering and his Mother Dora Dettmering. Emil was sure to tell many stories of his lifetime to all the people that knew him.

Emil’s first passion was farming, in which he became very successful at, but also knew that farming alone wouldn’t take care of his family the way that he had in his dreams. Still farming, Emil also joined the teamster’s local 731 and was a semi-truck driver hauling asphalt, then switched to a lowboy driver hauling heavy equipment, all for Alpha Construction in Hazel Crest IL. Emil at the same time as farming, raising pigs, selling Moews seed corn, Callahan soybeans and trucking, Emil then started selling tires to family and friends out of his 2-car garage. The tire business grew very rapidly, and Emil became known amongst many people for his personal attention to detail, service and knowledge of all different tires from Agricultural, Auto, Lawn and Garden, and semi tires. Emils Tire was formed. Emil then retired from trucking and focused his attention on growing Emils Tires.

Emil’s enjoyment was having a yearly pig roast at the farm for all his family, friends and customers, along with watching the Chicago Bears and just talking about football in general.

Emil retired from selling tires but stayed true to his original passion which was farming. Emil now could enjoy his accomplishments with his family.

Emil is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Lolita, his 4 sons, Raymond (Kathy) Dettmering, Emil Scott (Jamie) Dettmering, Jeffrey (Heather) Smith, Michael (Gina) Smith along with one daughter Tary Putnam. Emil has 18 Grandchildren and 12 Great Grandchildren.

Emil is proceeded in death by his parents, 4 sisters, and his son Russell Emil Dettmering.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Emil’s name may be made to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, or The Will County FFA Association. 

Family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, IL 60423 on Monday, April 13th, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026 from 10:00 AM until time of funeral service at 11:00 AM.  Interment, Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Richton Park, IL.