Filkorn-Emil of Hamburg, NY passed away July 7, 2021.  In 1954, with his wife Sigrid, Emil forged a new life in America enabling his descendants the opportunities at success uniquely available to those fortunate by birth or through immigration to live, prosper and pursue happiness in the United States.  Despite enduring the turmoil and heartache of WWII as part of Europe's innocent citizenry, the separation and 15-month  interment in a Czech labor camp at age 18, and the isolation of unknown futures he found his way back to family, now in a new land-Germany, and a new life soon to meet and fall in love with his life-long partner and friend, Sigrid.  Together they started pyramid Tile in 1971 turning it into a family business employing a small team of tile artisans for decades before handing it down to the next generation.  In that time, Emil had a successful career supporting the construction and expansion of many local fast food restaurants and car dealership franchises helping install the floors thousands of Western New Yorkers tread on daily.  In addition, he applied his talents to the restoration and remodeling of several local churches to include Saint Philip the Apostle Parish in Buffalo.  They raised three boys, cherished their good fortunes in their new Homeland and shared the values of hard work, humility and care for family with their children.  He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his young children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whenever possible.  He will be missed.  He is the beloved husband of Sigrid Filkorn; loving father of Herbert (Nicole), Walter (Wendy) and Emil (Kitty) Filkorn; dear grandfather of Jacob (Jordan Hoffman), Sarah, Christopher, Madison, Jack and Erik Filkorn, Jonathan and Brooke Caryk; great-grandfather of Nathaniel and Zachary Filkorn.   Family will be present at the Charles Meyer Funeral Home, 13228 Broadway Alden, NY Tuesday, July 20th from 6-8 PM.   A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at SS. Peter & Paul RC Church, Hamburg, NY Wednesday, July 21st at 10:30 AM. (please assemble at church).  Share your condolences at meyerfuneralhome.com.