Stewart F. Elder

Stewart Fernyak Elder of Fremont, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 12th, 2017 at Bethesda Care Center. His life began on February 16th, 1927 in Bangkok, Thailand, the son of Rev. Dr. N. Carl and Josephine (Fernyak) Elder. On July 9th, 1955, after meeting at the College of Wooster, Stewart married his beloved wife, Joanne Slocum, in Middlebury, VT. On the path to molding the minds of many, Stewart earned both his Master's and Specialist in Education. Through his career he touched many, starting as a principal at Stamm Elementary, then moving onto Sylvania, OH, and later Tiffin, OH.

Stewart dedicated his life to the community and serving others. A military veteran, he served on Guam during WWII in the United States Navy. He was a proud 50 year member of Boy Scouts of America, a member of First Presbyterian Church—involved in both bell and chancel choirs, Lions Club International, and a founding member of the Teacher’s Credit Union, now overseen by Fremont Federal Credit Union. Upon his retirement, Stewart delighted in driving “Betsy” the Bookmobile for Birchard Public Library; dedicated his time at the Liberty Center and Safe Kids’ Coalition. An avid bicyclist, Stewart spent his retirement working at Fremont Cycle and Fitness Center along with being a member of Flatlanders Bike Club.

Surviving is his wife of 62 years, Joanne Elder of Fremont, OH, children; Jim Elder of Cairo, GA; Laura (John) Elder-Connors of Colchester, VT; John (Holly) Elder of Fremont, OH; Bruce (Karin) Elder of Albany, NY; Ellen (Bill) Elder-Joseph of Massillon, OH; 10 grandchildren; sister, Eloise Lindahl and brother, John Elder. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister; Joann Elder. The family would like to thank Bethesda Care Center for their dedication and care of Stewart. Stewart was a kind, gentle spirit who truly touched the lives of many.

Visitation will take place on Friday, September 1, 2017 from 5-7:00P.M. at Keller-Koch-Chudzinski Funeral Home, 416 S. Arch Street, Fremont, OH. Memorial services will take place at 2:00P.M. on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at First Presbyterian Church 120 S. Park Avenue, Fremont, OH. Rev. Dr. Julie Kling will officiate. Light refreshments will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Boy Scouts of America and First Presbyterian Church in Fremont. Online condolences may be expressed at www.kkchud.com