Joseph N. "Joe" Elmer, age 85 of Monroe, passed away peacefully Friday, October 25, 2024 in his home with family by his side.
Born April 30, 1939 in Monroe, Joe was the son of the late John and Elizabeth (Braun) Elmer. He graduated from Monroe High School in 1957 and married Ruthanne Henrich on November 11, 1961 at Zion Lutheran Church. Together they raised three children.
Joe worked for La-Z-Boy for many years before becoming a laborer in the construction industry. He earned the position of Foreman through Local 465 in Monroe and Local 1191 in Detroit. He was also a member of Zion Lutheran Church and the Moose Family Lodge.
Joe had a fondness for cars, especially older models. He enjoyed owning, buying and selling them as a hobby. He also enjoyed deer hunting for many years.
Joe is survived by his wife of nearly 63 years, Ruthanne Elmer; his children, Joe (Bonnie) Elmer, Jr., Angela Elmer, and Anthony (Melinda) Elmer, all of Monroe; three grandchildren, Jacob Elmer, Anthony Elmer, Jr., and Mariah Siat; three step-grandchildren, Sarah Sadow, Elijah Holliday, and Jordan Holliday; two great-grandchildren, Kaylee Elmer and Logan Elmer.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by four brothers, John, Steve, Frank, and George Elmer; two sisters, Elizabeth Kanights and Anna Mata.
Family and friends may visit from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30th at Bacarella Funeral Home. Joe will lie in state Thursday from 10 a.m. until services at 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church. The church pastor, Rev. Greg Sitzman will officiate followed by burial at Woodland Cemetery.
Joe's family asks that any monetary acts of kindness be directed to Zion Lutheran Church in lieu of flowers.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .