Elmer went home to be with his Lord and with his wife on Aug. 3, 2005. He was married 54 years to Mildred (Millie) who preceded him in death in 2001.

Elmer was born in Cairo, Nebraska. Before becoming a resident of the Burien area over 50 years ago, he served his country in North Africa and Italy from 1942 to 1945 while in the Army Air Corps. After moving to Burien, he became well known and respected as a furniture upholsterer. He owned Hi-Line Upholstery and later Runge Upholstery.

He is survived by his son Larry, daughter-in-law Judy, and two grandsons, Kris and Tim.

Elmer was laid along side his wife Millie on Aug. 11, 2005, at Washington Memorial Park. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Aug. 20, at 11 a.m. at the Burien Free Methodist Church, 520 S. 150th St., Burien (206-241-0915).

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his name to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center or to the Lance Armstrong Foundation.