Emma H. Carrara

Emma H Carrara, of Meadville, passed away November 23, 2020 at Wesbury United Methodist Retirement Community, due to COVID-19. She was 93 years old. Emma was born at home on January 11, 1927 to the late Gen (Williams) and Ted Peterson. She graduated from Meadville Senior High School in 1945. Upon graduation, she worked at Bell Telephone and later at American Viscose. She eventually started her own business, Carrara Upholstery. An independent, tough, intelligent woman, Emma ran her business for over 40 years. Her daughter Elaine and her daughter-in-law Stacy worked with her. She was an expert who grew her business solely on word of mouth and her good reputation, and she loved her work. She enjoyed encountering all manner of people, and she always did the work right, on time, and for a fair price. She was a creative genius at design and a proud business owner in a world where women often were not. In addition to her business acumen, Emma was also an avid hunter. She once shot the tail off of a deer (we’re pretty sure she was aiming for the rest of the deer, but hey, a good shot is a good shot). She was also pretty darn good at fishing, often going with her grandchildren. She married Ernest Carrara on August 10th, 1946, not long after he returned home from the war. He preceded her in death on July 24, 1988. Also preceding her in death were her parents, her two sisters Mary Gray and Audrey Gray; her son-in-law, Paul John Gookin; and two grandchildren, Paul F. Gookin and Matthew F. Gookin. She is survived by her two daughters, Freda Gookin and Elaine (Larry) Phillips; her son, Ernest E. (Stacy) Carrara; six grandchildren, Shane Phillips, Rick Phillips, Joe Gookin, Sean Carrara, Kassy Morneweck, and Tanner Carrara; two brothers, Homer (Elvira) Peterson and Paul (Shirley) Peterson, as well as six great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Family was first and foremost in Emma’s life, and she loved each member of hers dearly. Emma was a life-long Christian and an active member of St. Paul’s Reformed Church for many years. She was a woman of faith, but also fun. When someone asked her what she was up to, she often replied “trouble.” She could always be counted upon for a warm smile, a good laugh, and a strong hug. She was a rock for those in her life. She could be counted upon to help shepherd others through difficult times, but she never took herself too seriously. Just last week, in one of her final conversations with her eldest daughter, she stated that she “could really go for an ice cold beer.” Emma loved life, God, and the many, many friends she had. No one escaped her love and warmth. Her family would like to thank Jess and Michelle from Kindred Hospice, whom Emma loved. They provided Emma with excellent care, love, and laughter. They are angels. Other angels who cared for Emma include the nurses and aides at Wesbury Town Square and Village Center. She always praised the care and friendship she received. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who cared for her. Arrangements are entrusted to Ryan M. Warren Funeral Home, 544 Chestnut St., Meadville, PA. The family is planning a memorial picnic at a future date when conditions will allow for a safe gathering of friends and loved ones. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Saint Paul's Reformed Church, 1070 Park Ave, Meadville, PA 16335, Meadville Community Soup Kitchen, 956 Main Street, Meadville, PA 16335 or Kindred Hospice, 1119 Park Ave #7, Meadville, PA 16335. Please take a moment to share a memory or condolence with the family on Emma's Book of Memories online at www.WarrenFH.com.