Elmer A. Lemke

I read of a man who stood to speak at a funeral of a friend. He referred to the dates on the tombstone from the beginning to end. He noted that first came the date of birth and spoke of the following date with tears, but he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years. For that dash represents all the time he spent alive on earth. Poem by Linda Ellis September 1, 1935 - March 13, 2019 We celebrate the life of Elmer A. Lemke. He was a devoted family man who was the core, along with his wife of 60 years Judy (Akey), of a strong and close family. Elmer spent many years camping with his family at Upper Gresham Lake and snowmobiling. Some of those with friends that were close throughout his life. He showed us the importance of family togetherness and how lifelong friendships are treasured. He was a man with a strong work ethic, retiring from 3M Co., Wausau, in 2000, and a soldier in the US Army. He was a man of his word with strong moral character and had inner kindness for everyone including animals. Elmer loved being “up north” and playing canasta. He liked making firewood and enjoyed a good campfire. He had a great sense of humor and his grandchildren made him smile. Elmer had a deep childlike faith in God and will be missed by all. Elmer is survived by his wife, Judy (Akey); his children, Paula (Michael Hunt), Jeff, Pam (Greg Dodge), and Greg (Dawn); his nine grandchildren, Justin July, Jayme July, Jenna July, Jared Dodge, McKenna Marion, Macy Marion, Graham Dodge, Erin Lemke and Maya Lemke; his sister Marilyn (Ewald Katke); his step-grandchildren, Andy Hunt, Emily Hunt, Elsie Hunt and Jonah Hunt; many nieces and nephews; and his dog, Jigs. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lois (Donald Severt); brother, Dale Lemke; and step-grandson, Isaiah Hunt. A Celebration of Elmer’s Life will be held at the Eagle’s Club in Merrill on Sunday, March 31st from 1:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. Military honors will be conducted by V.F.W. Post 1638, Merrill, at 5:00 P.M. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com