Michael David Elder's Obituary
Michael David Elder, 62, of Delaware, Ohio, passed away at his home on October 14th, 2023, after an 11-month battle with esophageal cancer. Michael was surrounded by his loving wife and partner of 21 years, Deborah (Debbie) Lynn Elder, and his three adult children, Erica Marie Cassill (husband David Nielsen) of Albany, New York, Jerod Michael Elder (wife Julie Elder) of Whitefield, Maine, and Raven Leigh Elder of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Michael’s wife, Debbie, stood bravely by his side through his diagnosis and treatment and was his advocate and devoted caregiver until his final moments.
In addition to his wife and children, Michael is survived by his stepson Jason Sauer (wife Jen Sauer), his grandchildren Franklyn and Piper Elder and Tyler and Nathan Sauer, his mother Susan Elder, and his siblings Christopher Elder (wife Johnnie Elder), Martin (Chip) Elder (wife Carrie Elder), and Heidi Streets (husband Michael Streets). His sweet poodle, Maggie, whom he loved with his entire heart, preceded him earlier this year.
His friends and family know Michael as a quintessential free spirit with a hearty appetite for fun and adventure. An avid outdoorsman, Michael was passionate about nature and ecology, and his happiest moments were spent hiking through the woods, paddling downstream, and sleeping under the stars. He was a champion for environmentalism and wildlife conservation and a committed Earth steward. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of American history, with a particular interest in the Native American cultures of the Central Ohio region.
Michael spent his first 43 years in his hometown of Amanda, Ohio, where he raised his children and started his business, Elder Roofing. Michael relocated to Delaware with Debbie in 2003, growing his business solely through word of mouth, thanks to his reputation for fairness and meticulous attention to detail. Michael worked tirelessly to give his family a wonderful life, and his children remember him as a playful, fun-loving, and supportive father who would move mountains for his family.
Michael lived to the absolute fullest, and his larger-than-life spirit made an indelible mark on those who knew him. He will be so dearly missed, and his loved ones are committed to keeping his memory alive.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 5th, 2023, at the Ohio Wildlife Center at 9000 Dublin Road, Powell, OH 43065 (contact family for details). In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Ohio Wildlife Center https://ohiowildlifecenter.org/donate/ an organization close to Michael’s heart.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?