Elmer W. Mcpherson

Elmer Walter McPherson, 81, of West Branch, died Tuesday, December 14, 2004 at the West Branch Regional Medical Center. A memorial service will take place at 11 AM on Friday, December 17, 2004 at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home of West Branch. Elmer was born February 18, 1923 near Gilford, Tuscola Co., the son of James and Lillie (Yax) McPherson. After living briefly in Gilford, Hazel Park and Perry, Elmer moved with his family to the West Branch area in the 1930s. In 1941 Elmer graduated from West Branch High School where he was active in many sports. On September 12, 1942 he married Alta Jean Hall. They settled in the West Branch area and raised three sons after serving in the Army. Elmer worked most of his life constructing pre-fabricated steel buildings and later as an Iron Worker. His work resulted in the building of many commercial buildings throughout Michigan. One of his last jobs was the construction of the Zilwaukee Bridge in Saginaw. He was a Shriner, Elf-Khurafeh, and a 32-degree Life Member of the local Masonic Lodge #376. Throughout his life, Elmer loved to hunt and fish. Many wonderful family stories centered around the annual deer hunts with his family and friends. He was very dedicated to his family and friends. He valued strength of character and good behavior above wealth and fame. He will be deeply missed by all of those who loved him so much. Surviving are his wife, Alta Jean of West Branch; sons Jim (Joie) of Royal Oak, MI, Joel (Patsy) of Mechanicsville, VA and Todd (Cindy) of West Branch; six grandchildren, seven great grandchildren; and sister Amber Hudak of Midland, MI. Elmer was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Everette and Arvid; and one sister, Arwilda. The family asks that no flowers be sent. Donations may be made in his name to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60702