Jan. 24, 1935 ~ Oct. 6, 2021
Jan. 24, 1935 ~ Oct. 6, 2021 Emil Lee Birkelbach, 86, lifelong resident of Littlefield, passed away Wednesday, October 6, 2021 in Littlefield. He was born January 24, 1935 in Littlefield to B.D. and Lilly (Sell) Birkelbach.
Emil married Charlene Vinson in her parent’s home in Sudan, April 20, 1957. The couple made their home in Littlefield, where Emil farmed and worked for Birkelbach Machine and Pump before he opened EB Panel & Pump which he owned and operated. After retirement, he worked for his son Gary at Birkelbach Pump Service, because he wasn’t the type to sit idle. Emil was a hard worker and a master well witcher. He loved hunting and fishing and appreciated a good game of dominoes. He also liked watching old westerns on TV and was an avid Wildcat fan. Emil and Charlene loved traveling together, going to the mountains and on fishing trips with friends. His greatest love was his family, especially his grandchildren. He truly loved spending time with each of them and being involved in their activities and sports.
Emil is survived by a son, Gary Birkelbach and wife, Mary of Littlefield; a daughter, Sharla Silhan and husband, David of Morton, TX; four grandchildren, Dr. Leann Silhan-Stockton and husband, Chad of Dallas, Dustin Silhan and wife, Jennifer of Amarillo, Shea Silhan of Lafayette, LA and Mardi Lee Birkelbach of Lubbock; six great-grandchildren, Charlie, Colette and Mazie Stockton and Ella, Krew and Beckett Silhan; a sister-in-law, Betty Birkelbach of Grandbury, TX; and several nieces, nephews and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Charlene Birkelbach November 11, 2009; his parents; one sister; and six brothers.
Funeral services was held on Saturday afternoon, October 9, 2021 at First United Methodist Church in Littlefield with Rev. Danny Sanders officiating. Interment followed in Littlefield Memorial Park cemetery. Serving as pallbearers was Dustin Silhan, Chad Stockton, Jeff Birkelbach, Larry Birkelbach, Tracy Birkelbach and Kevin Campbell. Arrangements were under the personal care of Hillcrest Funeral Home in Littlefield.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the First United Methodist Church in Littlefield.