Emma Graesser, 96, of Trenton, died Thursday December 6, 2007 at her residence. 

She was born January 1, 1911 in Trenton to Jacob and Emma (Kraemer) Bergdolt; they preceded her in death .

She married Julius Graesser August 30, 1947 in Trenton and he preceded her in death May 29, 1977. 

Also preceded in death by sisters Katie Becker, Anna Kunz, Mary Bergdolt, Margaret Saathoff and Elsie Bergdolt, a niece Martha Robertson .

Surviving are sons Robert (Esther) Graesser of Cary NC, Kenneth (Kathy) Graesser of St. Louis, MO .

5 grandchildren Chris, Dan, Laura, Sarah and Liz Graesser. 

12 nieces and nephews and great and great great nieces and nephews.

Emma earned her Bachelors degree from McKendree College and Masters Degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in education. She retired from Wesclin High School where she taught English and Biology. Prior to teaching at Wesclin she taught at various schools in Southern Illinois, and she enjoyed painting. 

One of her proudest accomplishments, she illustrated a book written by Dr. Edwin Spencer, “Just Weeds”. 

Emma was a member of St. John United Church of Christ in Trenton, Woman’s Guild, J.O.Y. Society, past adult Sunday school teacher and pianist. Clinton County Historical Society and past secretary, Retired teachers association of Clinton County and past treasurer, Lebanon Senior Citizens, and a volunteer with Belleville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. 

Funeral services will be Monday December 10, 2007 at 12:00 PM at St. John United Church of Christ in Trenton with Rev. Linzy Collins officiating. Interment Trenton cemetery. 

Visitation will be Monday December 10, 2007 from 10 AM to time of Service at the St. John United Church of Christ in Trenton. 

Memorials can be made to St. John United Church of Christ and will be received at the church or through the Moss Funeral Home in Trenton.