Memorial
Elmer Raymond Pfeifle, 87, of Cedar Rapids passed away on March 17, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family.
Elmer is survived by his wife, Elenora Pfeifle, children; Kelly (Craig) Eells, Kevin (Christa) Pfeifle, and son-in-law Ray Terpstra. Elmer was blessed with five grandchildren: Matt Terpstra, Elizabeth Terpstra, Max Pfeifle, Parker Eells, and Madison Pfeifle. He is also survived by his brothers, Leroy Pfeifle, Ervin (LaVon) Pfeifle, Myron (Judy) Pfeifle, Kenneth (Carlotta) Pfeifle and beloved nieces and nephews.
Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Martin Pfeifle, his sisters, Alice Bender and Viola Klein, and most recently his beloved daughter Tammy Terpstra. Also his parents-in-law, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law.
Elmer was born March 5, 1931 to Julius and Adele (Graff) Pfeifle in Ventura, North Dakota. Elmer had 7 siblings and grew up on the family farm. He was united in marriage to Elenora Knudson on October 26, 1958 in Perth, North Dakota. They had a loving 62 year marriage. Elmer and Elenora raised three children: Tammy, Kelly, and Kevin. Elmer proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War (1951-1953), where he was stationed in Germany. Elmer was a dedicated employee of Electric Coating, Inc. for 32 years. He was a member of First Lutheran Church for about 47 years.
Elmer’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends. He held a private pilot’s license, and flying was his greatest hobby. His favorite quote is “It is what it is”.
Elmer’s witty sense of humor and sweet personality endeared him to everyone who met him. He will be dearly missed by all that knew him.
Elmer’s beloved daughter, Tammy Terpstra, died hours before Elmer and accompanied him to Heaven. A joint visitation will be held Wednesday, March 21 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home, 4200 First Avenue NE in Cedar Rapids. A joint celebration of their lives will be held on Thursday, March 22 at 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church, 1000 3rd Ave SE in Cedar Rapids with a visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery with military honors. Luncheon to follow at First Lutheran Church.
In lieu of flowers please direct memorials to the family.