Emma Mae Brown

Emma Mae Brown, aged 79, of New Lenox, Illinois, passed away on December 14, 2025, at Silver Cross Medical Center. She was born on July 23, 1946, in Laporte, Indiana, to her late parents, Carl and Geneva (Rowe) Creech.

Emma dedicated a significant part of her life to her career as a secretary for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 Apprenticeship programs and also served as a secretary for General Motors' Electro-Motive Division, the primary locomotive manufacturing plant in La Grange, Illinois, until its closure.

A graduate of Tyner High School, Emma built a life centered around faith, family, friendship, and love—values that touched countless hearts throughout her journey. She had a special relationship with her grandsons, Kyle, Dylan, Tyler, and the late Ryan Starkus who were cherished blessings in her life and brought her immense pride. Emma loved her visits to Fort Myers, Florida with her brother Chuck and sister-in-law, Linda. She also enjoyed shopping and was always willing to pick up an item or two for her family. Emma made the best lasagna and chicken and dumplings for family celebrations. 

Emma is survived by her daughter, Sherri (Brown) Starkus; son in law, Bob Starkus; her three grandsons, Kyle Starkus, Dylan Starkus, and Tyler Starkus; three brothers, James Creech of South Bend, Chuck Creech of Osceola, and Carl Creech of Goshen; a sister, Connie Sue Stewart of Goshen; and many nieces and nephews.

She joins her beloved son, Brian Brown; grandson, Ryan Starkus; and sisters Velma Dell'Oro and Lou Ann Steinhofer; and brother Eugene Creech in eternal rest.

A visitation in Emma's honor will be held on December 19, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Kurtz Memorial Chapel Ltd, located at 102 Francis Rd, New Lenox, IL, 60451. A funeral service will immediately follow, beginning at 12:00 PM and concluding at 12:30 PM.

Emma Mae Brown's legacy of love and dedication to family will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew her. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Emma's name to Grace United Methodist Church 1718 Avalon Ave. Joliet, Illinois.