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Obituary for Emerson Lynn Small


Emerson Lynn Small, age 9, of Bangor, WI passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday February 18th, 2024 at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, WI. She was born March 10, 2014 to devoted parents Tyler and Kristen Small.

Although her time with us was short, Emerson brightened the lives of all who knew her. She taught many to be patient, kind and most of all fight for inclusion. She enjoyed music, cupcakes, swimming and spending time outdoors camping with her family. At home Emerson was happiest cuddling in Daddy’s lap, listening to Johnny Cash with Mommy, playing with her sister, Kaylea, and snuggling with her dog, Remi.

In 2020 Emerson was selected to serve as a Children’s Miracle Network Hero and through that experience, helped change lives for many families and children in need. Just announced this year, Emerson was to represent CMN as one of the 2024 National Champions Emerson is survived by parents, Tyler and Kristen; sister, Kaylea; grandparents, Steve and Dolly Small, Patti and Glen Griffith and Randy Craig (Sue Iverson); great-grandparents, Beverly Breidel and Kathy Craig; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by great-grandparents, Garth and Mildred Small, Darrell Miller and Beverly Sannes, Arnold Breidel, and Donald 'Lefty' Craig, great-auntie, Cheryl Hoeth; and several other relatives.

The Smalls would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to their family and friends, the teaching staff at West Salem Elementary, and the many healthcare professionals who were unwavering supporters of Emerson and her family. They would also like to thank those who joined her for her Honor Walk as she completed her journey providing the most precious gift of life to three others.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Sunday, February 25, 2024, in the gym at Bangor High School, 700 10th Ave., S., Bangor, WI 54614. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of service, Sunday, at the high school. All are welcome to attend.

A private burial will be held. The family asks that everyone wear green or their superhero best in remembrance of their Hero and organ donor, Emerson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the family or to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at Gundersen Health System in Emerson’s name.

Fredrickson Funeral Homes and Crematory, Bangor Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.