Elmer Leroy Steves, 95, of Minerva, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and faithful friend, passed away, Friday, September 16th, 2016, at Compassionate Care Center in Canton .

Elmer was born in Westville, Ohio on July 10, 1921, the first son of the late George and Nina Luella (Duncan) Steves.

He was the retired Street Superintendent for the Village of Minerva and had previously worked at the Metropolitan Brick in Pekin.

He proudly served in the U.S. Marines during WW II in the Pacific Theater of War. He was a member of Bayard United Methodist Church, Marine Corp. League, VFW Post 4120, West Twp. Ruritans where he was Treasurer for 37 years, Classic Travelers Antique Car Club, Muzzle Loader Club and the Pelican Club.

Elmer is survived by his wife of 73 years, Velma Margaret (Fankhauser) Steves; a daughter, Linda (Terry Gaub) Steves, of Denver, CO; son Lynn Steves, of Littleton, CO; grandchildren Terra Avila of Littleton, CO, Jason (Kelly) Steves of Delray Beach, FL, Toby (Amy) Steves of Brighton, CO; great-grandchildren Jordyn Avila, Mallory and Brayden Steves, Abby and Andrew Steves

He is preceded in death by a son, Lamar Steves, four sisters, three brothers, a daughter-in-law Loretta Steves, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Leona and Ralph Jackson.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, September 19, 2016 from 2 - 4 p.m. at the Bartley Funeral Home. Following calling hours, his wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bayard United Methodist Church.