Emily Suzanne (Goettler) Cirelli

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Emily Suzanne (Goettler) Cirelli on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

Emily will be deeply missed by her father Larry Goettler, mother Elizabeth Minnear, brother Matthew Goettler, niece Maddy, nephew Lucas, whom she adored both, fiance Walter Peugh, faithful and beloved dog Nakita, who was a cherished companion. She is also survived by her grandfather Michael Mizerak, two especially dear people in her life aunt Marian Fuhrman and stepfather Kenneth Minnear, along with many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, former students, colleagues, and all those who were fortunate enough to have known her. 

Emily was a beautiful soul whose life was far too short, but whose light touched so many. That light shone bright wherever she went. She was a sweet, vivacious, kind, and had a heart of gold. Her warmth, beautiful smile, and genuine love for others made her someone who was impossible to forget.

Upon graduating from Montineu High School, Emily was accepted into the Honors Education Program at Penn State University. Upon graduating from Penn State, she accepted her first teaching position in Dover, Delaware, beginning a career that would become one of the greatest passions of her life.

Emily later devoted 15 years to the Butler Area School District, where she dedicated herself to helping and inspiring her students. She also helped produce the Middle School musicals, sharing her creativity, energy, and love of the arts with countless students. Teaching was more than a career to Emily - it was something she truly loved, and the lives she touched will carry a piece of her forward.

Emily eventually left Butler to join her fiance Walter in New Orleans, a city as vibrant and full of life as she was. There, she embraced another passion of hers - cooking - and had the opportunity to work for Emeril's. Emily loved experiencing new places, new adventures, and making memories along the way.

Their next journey took Emily and Walter to Gallup, New Mexico, where Emily found a beauty and wonder in Route 66 and the red rock mountains. She embraced each chapter of her life with curiosity, enthusiasm, and her unmistakable zest for living.

Emily's sudden passing leaves and unimaginable emptiness in the hearts of those who loved her. Yet, her laughter, smile, kindness, and the love she gave so freely will remain forever.

She was a bright light in the world, although that light has left us far too soon, it will continue to shine through everyone whose life she touched.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever our bright light.

Emily's Life Celebration will be held at a later date. Details will be updated when arrangements have been finalized.