Richard L. "Dick" Emerson, 84, of Pullman, passed away October 21, 2020 at an adult family home in Pullman, WA.  Dick was born August 31, 1936 in Walla Walla, WA to Robert & Jean (Leonard) Emerson of Pullman, WA.  He attended Pullman schools, graduating from Pullman High in 1954.  He began his college studies at WSU and later enlisted in the United States Army, serving for several years.  Following his honorable discharge Dick settled in the San Jose, CA area where he married Crista Miller in 1959.  The family returned to Pullman where he went to work for his father at the Empire Department Store downtown Pullman.  Dick later owned and operated the family store for years before it closed.  He and Crista had two children and later divorced.  Dick married Joan Druffel on April 14, 1984 in Spokane and they moved to Kennewick, WA where he was employed as a men's clothing buyer for many years.  Following Dick's retirement they moved to Post Falls, ID for several years.  He and Joan returned to Pullman five years ago to be near family.  Dick enjoyed snow skiing, fishing and golf.  The time he spent at the family residence on Lake Coeur D'Alene with family was very special to Dick.  He was a member of the Pullman Lions Club for many years.  Dick is survived by his wife Joan at the Pullman home; son Randy (Kimi) Emerson of Pullman; daughter Karen (Colin) Connacher of Butte, MT; two grandchildren Kaelan & Magnolia; 3 step-sons Lee, Craig & Russ Druffel; 3 step-daughters Pam Kincaid, Joy Scourey & Julie Grote; his brother Bill (Judith) Emerson of Steamboat Springs, CO; his sister Roberta Emerson of Spokane; 22 step-grandchildren and 18 step-great grandchildren.  A family graveside service will be held at the Pullman City Cemetery. Proper social distancing and mask wearing will be observed.  Kimball Funeral Home of Pullman, WA has been entrusted with arrangements.  Memorial donations are suggested to Pullman Regional Hospital.