Poland - A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in New Middletown, for the Beloved Husband, Father & Grandfather, Rodney James Emerson (58),  who passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 22, 2015. Rod was born on June 5, 1956, a son of Charles E. Emerson & Hilda (Tillie) Sherman and grew up in Boardman, Ohio. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Mary June (Ohlin) Emerson whom he married on May 14, 1977, his three children, Emily J. (Steve) Shurtleff of Poland, Chelsea M. (David) Kusky of Lowellville, Jarod E. (Bobbie) Emerson of Baltimore, MD, and four grandchildren, Grace, Dillon, Garrison & Olivia.  He also leaves behind two sisters, Deborah (James) Frost of New Waterford, and Holly LaVolpa of Boardman. Rod had made a career as an appliance service technician for the past 40 years, not only servicing business clientele, but also offering repair services to many family and friends.  He was a dedicated parishioner of Saint Paul the Apostle Parish in New Middletown, where he served as parish council president, Eucharistic and Liturgical Minister, Choir and Men's Ensemble member, Engaged Couple mentor, and willing volunteer. An avid Scouter in his youth, Rod continued to spend many hours as an adult Scoutmaster dedicating his talents, knowledge, and skills in honing the boys of Troop 2 into fine young men.  Over 20 scouts achieved the rank of Eagle Scout under his guidance, including his own son.  Personally, Rod attained his Wood Badge - the highest adult training the scouting program has to offer.  He also received The Vigil Honor (The Order of the Arrow's highest accommodation). Rod loved the outdoors, including fishing, hunting, and camping; he enjoyed passing on this love to his children.  His memory will be cherished by his loving family, friends and all who knew him. Friends may call at St. Paul the Apostle Church in New Middletown on Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. and one hour before  the 10:00 a.m.  funeral mass on Friday. Donations will be accepted by Mary Emerson, on Rod's behalf for Boy Scouts of America, Troop 2 (Poland) to be used to assist Scouts in need. Donations may be sent to Mary Emerson at 9651 Springfield Road, Poland, Ohio 44514. Donations, in honor of Rod, may also be sent for The Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley, P.O. Box 298, Youngstown, Ohio 44501. Arrangements are being handled by the Clemente Funeral Home in New Middletown.