Emerson Edward Kolesnikoff, 86, son of the late Peter and Greta (Osborn) Kolesnikoff of Gladwyne, died Nov. 7 at home in Gladwyne of complications of cancer. Born in Chelmsford, Mass., he graduated from Maine Maritime Academy in 1945. After serving in the US Merchant Marines, he worked in real estate in Ohio and Maine. Husband of Barbara J. Murray, he is also survived by his children: Capt. Karl Kolesnikoff (USN Ret.) (Lynn Garman), Joy Kolesnikoff (David Hanning), Kim Scherer (Michael), and Janice Martin; his sister, Jean Hanagan, and brother, Wayne Koles; as well as two stepsons, Dr. G. Breton Murray and Barton Murray. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren. A member of Theta Chi Fraternity, he was an avid nature lover, golfer and bridge player as well as a profuse reader. He was an active volunteer for Eldernet and at Gladwyne Presbyterian Church.