Elmer J Wales was born in 1945 and was a proud, lifelong Floridan. He closed his eyes for the last time and left this world on April 3, 2024.
He fought a hard battle with colon cancer and managed to survive much longer than the statistics gave him.
Elmer was always a fighter. He was the sole survivor of a group of servicemen who drove over a landmine back in the Vietnam war.
He spent many months in the hospital and was forced to retire from the Navy related to the severity of his injuries.
After discharge, he met his wonderful wife, Gloria. They were married almost 49 years.
That day, he became my dad. He raised me, loved me, and taught me how to drive (which I have a new appreciation for now that I have a daughter driving). He was always proud of my accomplishments, no matter how small.
Elmer loved Gloria so much that he has been fighting health battles for many years. Through many heart procedures, skin cancer, a very nasty battle with prostate cancer and significant lung issues caused by agent orange.
He just kept fighting to be with his wife. I often joked that they were inseparable. But when he knew it was time to go, he went quickly, calmly, and very close to our upcoming visit to make the parting from his lifetime love as easy as possible.
He was predeceased by his parents Merrell and Eunice, as well as his brothers Ronald and Alvin Wales. He leaves behind his wife Gloria, his daughter Cindy (Michael) and his grandchildren Olivia and Ben (and countless friends that made him their honorary Papa).
Elmer loved fishing, swimming, and spending time with his family, including his babies (cats). He never said no to ice cream. He could talk to a wall and start a conversation with anyone (much to his anti-social daughters’ chagrin).
Elmer was a very hard worker. I personally declare him the winner of this last battle as he continued to live his life and remain positive. But showing up was always the most valuable asset. He continued to show up our entire lives.
Rest easy, Papa. We will imagine you out on the sea, with a soft warm wind catching every fish that bites! We love you.