With joyful remembrance, we celebrate the beautiful life of Emily Jean Pekich as we announce her passing. She peacefully departed this life at the age of 84 on January 14, 2025, at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, WA. Emily was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who left an enduring legacy of love and kindness. She made a lasting impression on everyone who had the honor of knowing her.

Born on October 3, 1940, in Pittsburgh, PA, to Ralph and Dorothy Schilling, Emily grew up with a passion for dancing. In 1957, Emily met the love of her life at a high school dance when English teacher, Mrs. Bowman, told a young Harvey Pekich to "Go dance with Emily. She's a dancer". The two quickly became inseparable, building a life together rooted in love and partnership. Emily graduated from high school in 1958, and in 1960 married Harv, beginning a nearly 65-year marriage. Shortly after they were married, they moved to Cleveland, OH, where they started a family.   In 1977, Emily and family moved to Bellevue, WA and in 1989 to Kirkland, WA.  In 2010, they built their dream home in Anacortes, WA, where Emily would live for 14 years. Emily and Harv created a lifetime of cherished memories.

Emily was a devoted mother to her daughter, Wendy, and son, Randy. The heart of every family gathering, Emily delighted in cooking meals to share with her children and grandchildren, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Emily was a choreographer and dance instructor for over 40 years.  With the support of her family, she founded Emily's Dance Arts. Over the years, Emily instructed many students in tap, jazz and ballet. They became more than students; they were friends. Her students considered Emily a brilliant dance instructor, who "nurtured a love of dance," and taught them "poise, confidence, excitement of competition, and a drive for excellence." Along with many dance productions, Emily, her family, and students performed an annual Nutcracker Ballet.  Emily owned dance studios in Pittsburgh, PA, Cleveland, OH and Bellevue, WA.

Her family will always remember her as a woman of grace, resilience, warmth, and love. Emily's home was a gathering place filled with laughter and her signature ability to make everyone feel welcomed and cherished. Whether she was playing card games, cheering on her grandchildren, or preparing family meals, Emily's presence made every moment brighter.

Emily was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Dorothy Schilling.  She is survived by her loving husband, Harvey Pekich; her daughter, Wendy Eichner (Mike); her son, Randy Pekich (Erin); grandchildren, Christian Pekich, Curtis Eichner (Ashley), Emma Eichner, and Elle Eichner; her sister, Dee Schilling; nieces, Breyn McLaren and Kelsey Merritt;  brother-in-law, Tone Pekich; and great-grandchildren, Aiden, Declan, Westley, and Everly

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to any of the following organizations in honor her lifelong love of animals.

https://www.meowanacortes.org/donate

https://bestfriends.org/?form=FUNLJQZPGEN

https://www.thenoahcenter.org/donate/

Even as we mourn deeply, we find comfort in knowing Emily's love and spirit will live on in the lives of her family, her friends, and those whom she touched with kindness. She taught us to cherish one another and lead with kindness.

Rest in peace, our sweet Emily. You will remain in our hearts forever.

Visitation for Emily will be held on Friday January 24, 2025 from 3pm-5pm at Evans Funeral Chapel located at 1105 32nd Street, Anacortes, WA 98221.

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday January 25, 2025 at 10:30am at Sunset Hills Memorial Park located at 1215 145th Place SE, Bellevue, WA 98007