Emma Jean Savaglio, age 29, of Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with her loving family at her side after a courageous and inspiring fight with stage 4 lung cancer despite never having smoked.
Emma was born on December 20, 1996, in Kenosha, Wisconsin. She attended local schools, went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology with minors in animal science and equine studies from the University of Wisconsin River Falls, and was working towards a Doctoral Degree at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, at the time of her diagnosis.
Emma was an animal lover to her core. She cherished the companionship of all her pets, from the many stray cats she fostered to her beloved horses, Goffin and Viggo. It was not a surprise to those who knew and loved Emma, that the little girl who galloped instead of ran would spend her life finding ways to care for her four-legged soul mates.
Emma possessed a rare and beautiful gift: she was an intent listener who gave her full attention to those around her, making people feel truly seen and heard. She was considerate and honest, with a sharp wit and a fantastic sense of humor that brought laughter to those she loved. Above all, Emma shared an extraordinary and unbreakable bond with her mother and with God. These characteristics and bonds carried her gracefully and with such strength to the very end.
Emma is survived by her mother, Amy (Petersen) Savaglio; her stepfather, Albert Savaglio; maternal grandparents, Leif and Barbara Petersen; an uncle, Erik (Courtney) Petersen; and cousins, Nella, Brock Dane, and Allie. She is also lovingly remembered by her dear best friends, Whitney Lynn and Katie Murray.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Proko Funeral Home, with a funeral service to commence at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions in Emma’s name to ReRun, Inc., where she adopted her beloved horse, Goffin. ReRun, Inc., 236A Waters Road, East Greenbush, NY 12061, https://www.rerunottb.com/support
