Thomas “Mike” Emerick

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas “Mike” Emerick, beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather. Mike was born on April 3, 1948, in Salzburg, Austria and peacefully went to be with the Lord on May 14, 2025, at the age of 77 in the comfort of his home. His family moved to Vero Beach, Florida in 1958 where he attended St. Helen Catholic School. Mike was a 1966 graduate of John Carroll Catholic High School in Fort Pierce. Throughout his life Mike was a devoted Catholic and most recently was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church.

He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a medic before graduating from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Business.

Mike was the proud owner of Southern Hardware, a treasured family business where he earned a reputation for being able to repair anything and everything. His knowledge and resourcefulness made him a trusted source for the community and an inspiration for his children, whose toolboxes he gladly outfitted. Young grandchildren referred to Mike’s own toolbox as “Papa’s treasure chest.” Never out of reach from his pocket knife and a cord of string, he had a knack for turning ordinary materials into extraordinary creations, never failing to impress others with his cleverness. After the closing of Southern Hardware in 2000, he worked as a citrus inspector for the USDA and then Bernard Egan Company, before retiring in 2016.

Throughout his life, Mike found joy on the water, whether fishing on his cherished boat, “Blue Chip,” or lobstering in the Florida Keys with his wife, children and grandchildren. He began sailing at the age of 12 and later took up racing sailboats before becoming a charter member of the Fort Pierce Yacht Club in 1980. Countless memories of sailing the high seas were made throughout his life with both family and friends. Some of these adventures include exploring the British Virgin Islands, the Sea of Cortez, Ibiza, Croatia, the Leeward Islands and French Polynesia.

His passion for the outdoors was also evident in his love for camping and hunting which he pursued from an early age. His camping trips took on new meaning as a member of the YMCA Indian Guides and Princesses programs with all four of his children. Later in life he traveled and camped across North America with his wife and other family members in their tow behind camper, “Carolina.” Many precious memories were made on these campouts, where Mike shared life lessons and skills that have been passed down to his family. Time spent in nature was medicine to his soul, offering him peace and tranquility which he instilled in those closest to him. His values, discipline, perseverance, and adventurous spirit live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

An avid fan of westerns, military and American history, maps and nautical charts, anything with an engine, knives, flashlights, and firearms; his inquisitive mind and wealth of knowledge alongside his humble and selfless approach to life will be missed and remains deeply admired.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Bernadette; his children, Michele Lucas (Paul), Molly Griffeth (Corbin), Thomas Emerick (Chelsi), Chris Emerick (Kate); his grandchildren, Leah, Maddy, Colin, Julia and Riley; his sister, Wendy Solomon; brother, George Emerick (Chris), brother-in-law Barry Gordon, sister Mary Horseman (Bob) and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Patricia Emerick and his sister, Catherine Gordon.

A funeral Mass will take place on Friday, June 6th at 10:00 AM at Holy Cross Catholic Church Parish Hall in Vero Beach, Florida. A private family burial will follow. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 8th from 1:00 – 4:00 PM at the Fort Pierce Yacht Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Youth Sailing Foundation of Indian River County in memory of Mike Emerick. Donations can be made to YSF Community Sailing and mailed to P.O. Box 612, Vero Beach, FL  32961 or via their website at https://www.ysfirc.org/ by clicking on the “donate” button. Please note “In memory of Mike Emerick” with your donation.

Mike will be greatly missed by many, but his family finds strength in knowing he has found eternal peace and is watching over them from Heaven.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.