ELKHART— Elmer Griffey, 87, of Elkhart, passed to his rest Saturday, Feb. 18, at Eastlake Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

He was born in Joppa, Ill., March 6, 1929, to Ray and Pearl Elizabeth (Warwick) Griffey.

He moved to this area 51 years ago.

He married Mary "Louise" Flannigan on Jan. 2, 1954, in Corinth, Miss.

Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Mary Griffey; sons Don (Pat) Griffey, Kendall (Teresa Elston) Griffey and Todd (Lori) Griffey; grandchildren Melissa (Josh) McCraner, Meagan Griffey, Nathan Griffey, Kole Griffey and Gracie Griffey.  Also surviving are a brother, Louis (Pat) Griffey and sister Mary Russell.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents; grandchildren Nick and Adam Griffey; brothers Paul, Lloyd, Floyd, Albert, Alfred and Delmar Griffey; sister Ellen Bowman; and a special daughter-in-law, Laura Griffey.

Elmer worked at Elkhart Products Corp. as a machinist, retiring in 1992.

He loved to shoot pool, play checkers and cards with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Friends may call for one hour prior to the 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25 celebration of life service at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart.

Elmer's family will share memories and officiate.

In keeping with Elmer's wishes, cremation was chosen.

Memorials may be made to United Cancer Services of Elkhart County.

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