©1999-2015
Wisconsin Pottery Association
P.O. Box 705
Madison WI 53701-0705
The following article appeared in WPA Press, Vol. 8, April 2001
In Memoriam: Remembering Emily Landphier
A great sadness came upon the Wisconsin Pottery Association as we learned of the recent death of member Emily Landphier, wife of Gordon Landphier. We enjoyed Emily's presence at our holiday party in December 2000 but she did not accompany Gordon to the January meeting, as she was suffering an arthritis flareup. Emily died at home a few days after that meeting. Gordon explained that she died unexpectedly of a heart ailment.
Gordon and Emily had celebrated 50+ years of marriage. Although her health presented an occasional challenge, just how fragile Emily's condition was remained unknown to most of us. Emily had a very warm and welcoming smile, the kind that made you feel she had been looking forward to seeing you. Obviously others felt this warmth as well - Gordon says that they have friends all over Wisconsin, including people that they met while antiquing.
Gordon also noted that their granddaughters were big fans of their Grandmother and although teenagers, the girls sometimes preferred an evening with Emily to hanging out with their friends.
I had an opportunity to visit with Gordon and Emily briefly while seeking volunteers for the 2000 Show and Sale. They generously offered to spend a two-hour shift in the exhibit area, directing traffic and answering questions. The accompanying photo was taken during that shift.
Emily, thank you for your warmth and friendship and promotion of the WPA. And Gordon, thank you for sharing Emily with us. We miss her cheerful smile at our monthly meetings!