Elmer Linton Valkenaar Jr., (St. Elmo), passed away April Fool's Day, 2022, at the age of 92. He was born on Jan.25, 1930, in Waukegan, Illinois, to parents Elmer and Esther. He is preceded in death by siblings Charles and Charmaine.

Elmer became a radar specialist in the Air Force, and then attended Michigan State University to become an electrical engineer designing "secret" projects. During this time, Elmer married Sandra Albrand, and they went on to have 3 children: Louis, Lisa, and Eric; who begat grandchildren: Lauren, Stefan, Henry, and Alaina. He just missed meeting great-granddaughters Lia and Johanna. (Darn it!) Later he married Lolita Durand. They travelled the world and ran The Egg Cup Inn.

After a lay-off in engineering, Elmo drove an ice cream truck, almost bought the business, but instead moved his family north to Silverton, Oregon, where he lived for almost 50 years. He went on to become a real estate broker and then finally a beloved teacher and coach, first at the Mt.Angel Seminary High School, and later at Silverton Union High School, where he started their soccer program and became the voice of Silverton Foxes basketball! The young people adored Elmo! He touched so many of their lives!!

Volunteering also became a passion for Elmo; at the Hospital Auxiliary, The Oregon Garden, and really, wherever his help was needed! Such a generous, kind, and friendly man, with an outrageous streak all his own! He loved Silverton, and Silverton loved him back!

St. Elmo is buried at Valley View Cemetery, Silverton.

Donations can be made to Silverton High School.

COME CELEBRATE ST. ELMO'S LIFE!  September 17, 2022, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2:00-4:00.