Emmett E. Highley was born at St. Louis, Missouri. In September 1911 he married Clara Zink, the daughter of Peter and Theresa Lettner Zink, who was born at Melville in April 1887. The Highleys lived in Melville all their married lives where Mr. Highley was a carpenter and painter. In the early days of their marriage Emmett had a general merchandise store in Melville.
The Highleys had four children: Marian, Lewis, Rena and Janice.
Mr. Highley died December 25, 1971, and his wife died January 31, 1972. They are buried in the Carrington Cemetery.
Source: A History of Foster County 1983 Page 84B