Emma Leigh Corneliuson

Age 26, passed away on April 22nd, 2026, surrounded by family and friends, leaving a profound impact on the lives she touched.

Affectionately known as Emma Girl, Emma Bean, M&M and Dumpling Doo, she brought effervescence and sunshine into every room she entered. Her nicknames reflected the loving relationships she cherished. Emma was the amazing daughter of Kathryn (nee Palleon) and David Corneliuson. Loving sister of Ethan Corneliuson. Proud Granddaughter and best friend of Arlene (late Charles) Palleon. Beloved Granddaughter of Betty (late Lee) Corneliuson and Chris & Jim Kohn.

A 2018 Greendale High School graduate, Emma truly loved being part of her local community. As a proud member of Special Olympics since 2009, Emma brought joy, determination and heart to every event she participated in. She competed in Track & Field, Basketball Skills, and Bowling, earning recognition for always giving her best and inspiring others with her spirit. She also took great joy in celebrating her Polish culture, performing with the Syrenka Polish Folk dance ensemble and creating lasting friendships.

Emma’s huge heart gave her a passion for helping others. For five years, she volunteered at Three Pillars in Dousman, where her patience and companionship brought joy to residents living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. She also dedicated her time to Hope House in Waukesha, St. Vincent de Paul and the Ridge Kids Childcare program, always seeking ways to show up for those in need.

Emma’s work life reflected that same passion for connection and purpose. She had a strong bond with Woodland Academy– it’s a place where she grew, contributed, and belonged, always striving to do her best. She began as a student and developed into a dedicated staff member. Her time was meaningful not only for what she accomplished but for the relationships she built along the way.

Emma found joy in simple moments: singing from the heart, dancing freely, and being with the people she loved. She loved history and took great pride in her Polish, Greek, and Norwegian heritage. Whether she was relaxing in the lake, taking walks, laughing during girls' nights, or helping in the yard, Emma was always her true, happy self.

She showed us how to love, not because life was perfect, but in spite of its challenges. Her love was effortless, non-judgmental, and boundless. In a complex world, she was a constant source of pure light. Emma’s legacy remains in the lives she changed, proving that because we knew her, we are changed for good.

Special thanks to the MICU team at Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital. We will always be grateful for your tender loving care.

Even now, Emma is still loving people the only way she ever knew how completely and selflessly. Through organ and tissue donation, she will help more than 100 people, giving renewed hope and healing through her extraordinary gift of life. It is a reflection of who she was everyday: someone who showed up for people, cared deeply and gave more than she ever took.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 9th, 2026 at St. Alphonsus Church (6060 W Loomis Road, Greendale, WI) from 9:30-11:45am, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00pm. Entombment at St. Adalbert Cemetery on Monday, May 11th at 11:00am. The family looks forward to celebrating Emma’s life with you. Please come as you are, or feel free to wear bright colors to honor Emma’s shining personality and joyful spirit.

Memorials to the family would be appreciated.

"If I could tell you one more thing, it would be this—keep loving people. Love them the way I did, without holding back. Be kind, be patient, and be there for each other. I’m still helping people as an organ and tissue donor so that others may have the chance to live, or live a more fulfilling life—still giving, and still loving, just in a different way now. And when you remember me, remember me with a smile."