Michael Elder

Elder, Michael Steven Born May 21, 1950 to Fred Elder and Norma (Brown) Elder in St. Louis, MO. Passed away Aug. 11, 2016, surrounded by his family. He is preceded in death by his mother Norma (Brown) Elder, his father Fred Elder, brother Rick Elder, daughter Jamy Elder, nephew Destry Wampler, niece Krista Eaton, and brother-in-law Jack Wampler. Survived by Debbie Elder, his wife of 40 years, 8 months, 2 days; daughter Sarah (Brian) Hazlett; sons Mike Elder and Matt Elder; sister Linda Sue (Richard); brother Keith (Linda); sisters-in-law Katie (Frank) Eaton, Donna Wampler, Dee (Bill) Barnes; brother-in-law Archie (Peggy) Sturgess; granddaughters Hope (Corey) Uptegrove, Faith Shepard, Brooke Griffard, Amy (Nathan) Neel, Madison Elder; grandsons Lance Elder, Chase Elder; great-grandchildren Deonte Graffard, Lucas Craddock, Tysen Shepard, Payson Uptegrove, Payton and Adeline Neel. Many nieces and nephews and friends. He loved you all so much. Dad was a superhero. Always “on call” for everyone. He was a big, strong, gruff guy on the outside but soft and gentle on the inside. My dad served his country proudly from 1968-1972 serving two tours in Vietnam. He was a combat engineer in the Army. In 1975 he met the love of his life, my mom. I was three at the time. My mom and dad have been side-by-side since then. They worked together daily for 25 years at Cold Water. They have been inseparable ever since. But because of their love, they raised a beautiful family. Daddy, we all love you and miss you, but I am so happy you are pain-free now. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Bopp Chapel, 10610 Manchester Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122 c/o Elder Family. Funeral Tues., Aug.16, 11:30 am at BOPP CHAPEL, 10610 Manchester Rd., Kirkwood. Interment, National Cemetery. Visitation Mon. 3-7 pm.