In 1942, Elmer graduated from Delphi High School. During World War II, Elmer served as a paratrooper in the United States Army. He lived most of his life in Pyrmont and Buck Creek areas until moving to Lafayette in 1978. Elmer worked for 20 years at Purdue University Power Plant before retiring in 1998. He also owned and operated the blacksmith and repair shop in Buck Creek. Elmer was a member of Pyrmont Church of the Brethren, Buck Creek Fire Department, Rossville Volunteer Ambulance, and Milner Board. Elmer loved working on old engines and volunteered many hours to the Brethren Disaster Relief and Habitat for Humanity.

In addition to his wife, Elmer is survived by his children, Larry W. (Joyce) Patrick, of Pyrmont, Keith A. (Angela) Patrick, of Lafayette, and Beverly (Barry) Miller, of Rossville; Doris' daughters, Marilyn Lane-Sikes and Melody (Charles) Gipson; brothers, Don Patrick, of Florida, Evan Patrick and Roy Patrick, both of Lafayette, Jim Patrick, of Michigan, and Homer Patrick, of Florida; sisters, Mary Pemberton, of Fairmont, and Sharon Davis, of Tennessee; 11 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.

Elmer is also preceded in death by his brothers, Kenneth, Roger, and Ralph; and sister, Norma Garriott.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 30, 2018, at Genda Funeral Home Rossville Chapel from 10:00 a.m. to the start of the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Pastor William Scott will officiate. Burial will follow in Pyrmont Cemetery. Memorials in Elmer's name may be made to Habitat for Humanity of Lafayette. Online condolences may be directed to www.gendafuneralhome.com.