Emil M. Sandusky, Jr.

Emil M. Sandusky., Jr., 85, of McKeesport passed away Saturday, May 2, 2026. He was born in McKeesport on May 26, 1940 to the late Emil M. Sandusky Sr., and the late Agnes C. (Roper) Sandusky. He was the loving husband of 64 years to the late Audrey E. (Smith) Sandusky before her passing in November 2024. He and his wife were always known as two people who were truly in love, their entire life together. A couple who always put each other first, which resulted in a strong family they eventually grew over the years. He was a devoted family man - a great father, an amazing grandfather, and lucky to be around to see 3 beautiful great-grandchildren. He worked almost 30 years as a Coke Worker for US Steel, and then moved to Security at Riverside Care Center for 23 years before retiring. He was a remarkably talented gardener who took great pride in his work, winning many contests and bringing home countless ribbons over the years. His greenhouse was his sanctuary, and he could often be found tending to his plants or simply enjoying the sunshine. On warm days, he loved nothing more than resting on his bench, soaking in the peace he created around him. In his younger years, he was an avid fisherman and would always take his kids along for the day with him. In his later years, he enjoyed playing bingo down at Riverside Care Center, relaxing with his adult coloring books, and was fond of watching classic cowboy shows. Above all, he was a devoted family man-a wonderful husband, a great father, an amazing grandfather. He is survived by his sons, Emil (Tina) Sandusky, III. of North Versailles, and Kirk Sandusky of McKeesport; daughter, Melissa (Jeff) Fawcett of McKeesport; grandchildren, Justin (Van) Fawcett, Brandon (Becca) Sandusky, Melanie (Kaleb Karloski) Fawcett, Corey Sandusky, Kirk Sandusky, Jr., and Kody Sandusky; great-grandchildren, Ayvah, and Levi Brown, and Mia Sandusky; his brother, Andrew Sandusky; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, Emil is preceded in death by his son, Mark Sandusky; a daughter, Emily Sandusky; and by his sister, Jeri Temple. Friends are welcome Tuesday, May 5, 2026 from 2-4 & 6-8pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131. (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, director. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 10:00am at the Mary, Mother of God Parish - Corpus Christi Church (EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT THE CHURCH). Interment will follow at the New St. Joseph Cemetery - North Versailles. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com