ELTON CARROLL  ANDERSON, loving husband, Dad, grandpa and brother passed away Friday, March 12, 2010, at the age of 90 years, 7 months and 14 days.

Elton was born July 26, 1919, in rural Lyons, Nebraska to Carroll and Edith  (Crawford) Anderson. He attended Jefferson Country School and graduated from Lyons High School in 1937. He was a member of the Memorial United Methodist Church in Lyons.

Elton served his country in the 5th Armored Division, US Army, as a tank driver during WWII from 1940-1945. He was stationed in Germany, Luxemburg and various other places overseas. Following his honorary discharge, he was a member of the Robert Klase VFW Post No. 7998 and Harvey Lenig American Legion Post No. 83

On February 10, 1950, Elton was united in marriage to Alice R. Hedges at Dakota City, Nebraska. This union was blessed with four children: Susanne Carol, Larry Joe, Cynthia Kay and Sandra Lea. They farmed and raised their family in the Lyons area. Following retirement, they raised sheep for many years on their acreage. Elton and Alice truly enjoyed life on the farm and were each others’ best friend. They worked side by side together and their door was always open to share a cup of coffee with anyone who happened to stop by.

Elton enjoyed league bowling and playing cards in his earlier years. He had a special way with children and animals. His dogs, Minnie and Ginger, were always at his side. He also enjoyed raising cattle, hogs and various other barnyard animals. Elton had a contagious smile and was known for his sense of humor. Elton’s loving sisters and neighbors always had a special place in his heart.

Elton was a wonderful father. He taught his children the value of hard work and always had a saying that would make things seem better. He enjoyed taking his family on camping vacations in the summer. He always liked to take the back roads and surprise them with their destination. Above all, he taught them the simple things in life were the most important. His love for life will be carried with them always.

Elton took a special interest in his grandchildren and great granddaughter. He was happy to let them ride with him on his tractor, combine or riding lawn mower. He always let them tag along to the barn to bottle feed lambs and ask all the questions they wanted. They have many happy memories of his sense of humor and kind heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edith and Carroll; wife, Alice; son, Larry Joe; daughter, Susie and sister, Margaret Steen.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters and sons-in-law, Cindy and Ron Ahrens of West Point, Nebraska, Sandra and Mike Mejstrik of Norfolk, Nebraska; five grandchildren, Jennifer (Justin) Bowers, Matt Mejstrik, Jessica Mejstrik, Jessie Ahrens, Katlyn Ahrens; great granddaughter, Gracie Bowers; sisters and brother-in-law, Helene and Frank Hedges of Lyons, Berniece Stammer of Lawrenceburg, Indiana; nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

FUNERAL SERVICE: Monday, March 15, 2010, 10:30 a.m. at the Memorial United Methodist Church in Lyons.

MILITARY HONORS:  Robert Klase VFW Post No. 7998 and Harvey Lenig American Legion Post No. 83

BURIAL: Lyons Cemetery

VISITATION: Sunday, March 14, 2010, 1 - 8 p.m. with the family receiving friends from 6 - 8 p.m. at Pelan Funeral Home in Lyons. Visitation Monday will be held at the church one hour prior to the service.

MEMORIALS: To the Family

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Each condolence will be printed and given to the family after the service.

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