Edward P. Elmer was born in Gottland, Sweden, on September 17, 1876, to the parents, Johan Thomas Edward Elmer and Anna Marie Josephine Elmer. He observed his seventh birthday on the boat enroute to America, together with his parents and four sisters, namely, Helena and Anna, and the twins, Helda and Louise. The family's first residence was at Pullman, Illinois, where Clara Josephine was born. The family moved to the Swan Lake vicinity south of Cottonwood where he, as a boy, herded sheep and cattle, and later moved to Marshall where they spent two winters. When word arrived of the laying of the Great Northern railroad track to Cottonwood, the farm one and one-half miles northeast of Cottonwood was purchased and with the aid of the railroad crews, the lumber was secured for the building of the home and other buildings. It was in 1891 when the youngest sister, Clara, now Mrs. Joe Nelson of Cottonwood, was born on the farm, making a family of six girls and one son. The father turned to blacksmith work in town and young Edward took over the farm operation. Ed was a charter member of the first Presbyterian Sunday School class in Cottonwood when Mrs. Dr. Robertson, sister of Mrs. Michie, organized the class in the old depot. He was confirmed by Rev. Romstad. On January 13, 1899, Ed exchanged marriage vows with Clara Augusta Jaenisch at the Silo Lutheran Church in Cottonwood with Rev. Martin Romstad, officiating. The reception was held on the same farm where the couple resided for nearly sixty years. They observed their golden wedding anniversary there nine years ago. The couple was blessed with eight children, two of whom preceded him in death, namely, Edna May and Dorothy Elizabeth. Clarence resides at Evansville, Ella (Mrs. Ed Harrington) at Denver, Colorado, Ervin at Granite Falls, Alfred, at home, Mildred (Mrs. Erling Jurgenson) at Clarkfield and Gladys (Mrs. Chester Bishop) of Denver, Colorado. Ed was a progressive worker in the community during his active years. He served several terms as school board treasurer, township supervisor and chairman of the town board. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and Order of Eastern Star. From 1907 to 1928, the family operated Cottonwood's only milk route. Rippley's "Believe It Or Not" mentioned the fact that the first Co- Operative in the world was formed at Cottonwood, Minnesota, with the deceased and three other local men as organizers. Due to the language barrier, the family joined the Presbyterian church when the children started Sunday School and where they have served in many capacities. Mother of the deceased passed away in 1909 and his father in 1915. One grandson, Wayne Elmer, preceded him in death in 1943. Deceased suffered a stroke May 21st and was a patient at the Clarkfield Hospital until July 10th when he was returned to his farm home. He passed quietly away on his mother's birthday, July 24, 1958, at the age of 81 years, 10 months and seven days. Cherished memories remain with his wife, children, nine grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, sister, and many other relatives and friends. IN MEMORY OF Mr. E. P. Elmer September 17, 1876 ~ July 24, 1958 Funeral Services Saturday, July 26, 1958, 2:00 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, Cottonwood, Minnesota Clergy Officiating, Rev. Walker F. Vance Pianist, Mrs. John Lines Vocal Music, Stan Jurgenson "In the Garden" "Rock of Ages" Pallbearers Clarence Elmer ~ Erling Jurgenson Ervin Elmer ~ Chester Bishop Alfred Elmer ~ Ed Harrington Final Resting Place Cottonwood City Cemetery Cottonwood, Minnesota Arrangements by Lynner Funeral Home Since 1891 Clarkfield Minnesota