Arnold George Emter

ARNOLD "ARNIE" G. EMTER September 2, 1930 ~ July 7, 2016 Arnie Emter, 85, of Vancouver, WA, passed away July 7, 2016, after a brief battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Rosalie Emter, his children, Maria Emter Lattanzi, Scott Emter, Debbie Emter and Tina Emter Shotwell, all of Vancouver; his siblings, Vern Emter of LaCenter and Delores Cahill of Pendleton, OR; his stepsons, David, Dennis, Duane and Don Choquette; and stepdaughter, Doreen Wilsdon; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Arnie graduated from Vancouver High School in 1949. He served in the National Guard from 1950-1954 and was stationed in Nome, Alaska, during the Korean War. Following his military service, he attended Clark College before joining the Vancouver Fire Department in 1956. To this day, Arnie's work to unionize the Vancouver firefighters into the AFL-CIO is considered legendary. His advocacy included persuading Vancouver's then-mayor to approve purchasing the very first uniforms for the city's entire firefighting team. That action was an important first step to increase the professionalism and respect deserved for the crucial work our firefighters perform in our community. Arnie proudly served the Vancouver Fire Department for 19 years before retiring for medical reasons. Following his public service, he then worked for Evergreen Distributing for 20 years before retiring in 1994. Arnie enjoyed reading about military history, gardening, cooking, and watching his grandchildren play sports. Prior to his ill health, he stayed active in the Retired Firefighters Association's monthly breakfast meetings in Vancouver. In his younger years, Arnie was an avid bowler and fast-pitch softball player. The graveside service will be held on Tuesday, July 26 at 3p.m. at the Arlington West area of Evergreen Memorial Gardens. The service will include a special Fireman's Bell Ceremony. In lieu of flowers, his family encourages those who wish to make a contribution to consider donating to the American Cancer Society or the Vancouver Firefighters Association. Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.

Arnold George Emter

September 2, 1930 - July 7, 2016