Howard Emmer

Successful, self-made and energetic business owner Howard Emmer was inspired to explore his creative side in a new way by writing his first book, “A Father’s Wish,” which was published last year.

The easy-to-read book is a work of fiction rooted in family, spirituality and humor. The story and lessons are inspired by real life and Emmer’s desire to pass along to his only child, Max, the wisdom of his father, who died in his fifties.

“I knew I had a story to tell...It’s something to see my voice coming off the pages along with my often very dark, funny sense of humor,” he explained. “The book is fiction plus fantasy plus a hell of a lot of truth. The story is very deep, and it will make you laugh, smile and cry.”

Emmer admits he always tests those who say they have read his book. “One of my brothers said he read the book, and I asked him what he thought of the part about one of our dogs we had while growing up. He said it was touching, poignant – then I replied that I didn’t even mention the dog,” he said laughingly.

He added, “Unlike in the book, I never had a bad relationship with Max. In fact, we see each other every day. I wanted to make sure to teach my son everything my dad taught me...and then pass it on to his son, Rocky.”

Emmer also credits his editor, Samantha Ziegelman, with helping his story reach publication.

The author grew up very modestly as one of three brothers in Los Angeles, California. When he was in ninth grade, the family moved to Oklahoma for a year, where he learned about metaphysical science from a teacher who deviated from the planned curriculum.

He revealed that this serendipitous exposure has positively affected his outlook on life by opening his mind to spirituality, fantasy travel, meditation, numerology and more.

The Bloomfield Hills resident and his wife, Ilene, met in California on a blind date 45 years ago. They married and moved back to her home state of Michigan where they have built a life and family together. They are grateful to have their son, daughter-in-law and grandson living nearby. The couple now spends winters in L.A., which is where Emmer started writing his book.

Since Emmer would like to see “A Father’s Wish” turned into a movie, he regularly leaves copies of his book on tables of famous people when dining out in Beverly Hills, California. “I’ve been selling things since I was five years old – the worst thing they can say is 'no.'”

For much of his life, Emmer said he used his creativity to write children’s poems and stories as well as playful songs for special occasions, but now that he has published a book, he would like to write a one- or two-person comedy play or show. “I’d love to involve my wife, but she says, ‘no way.’”

Emmer has spent over four decades as the owner of successful Michigan-based companies, Specialty Kitchens and Baths and Quick Shower Glass, and offers aspiring entrepreneurs the same advice he received from his father: “Be truthful and honest with family, friends and in business – and treat everyone with respect.”

He adds, “Organization and integrity are important to success and being late is disrespectful – if you’re not 15 minutes early, you’re late. I built my own wealth and success this way.”

When he’s not working or writing, Emmer enjoys staying active with pickleball, tennis, golf and daily walks with his son. He and his wife also love to travel.

“I was put on this earth to love life, share stories, laugh, and make people feel good,” he said. “I’m blessed.”

Story: Tracy Donohue

Photo: Laurie Tennent