Elmer J. Fundermark

Elmer J. Fundermark, of Lancaster, Ohio, formerly of Conneaut, Ohio, was called to eternal life on August 21, 2021, at age 93.  He was born in Bedford, Ohio and was raised in Fairport Harbor, Ohio.  After graduating from high school, Elmer enlisted in the US Army. Where he was a World War II veteran serving in Japan, and was honorably discharged in 1947.

In 1948, Elmer married Phyllis Erkkila after eloping to New York City.  Elmer earned a Bachelor’s degree in horticulture in 1950 and a Master’s degree in education in 1970 both from Ohio State University. After brief stays in Columbus, Dayton, and Zanesville, Elmer and Phyllis settled in Conneaut, Ohio, where Elmer owned and operated Eaton’s Greenhouse from 1954 to 1968. Elmer then entered the field of education and taught until his retirement in 1991.  In retirement, Elmer sold real estate until he and Phyllis moved to Lancaster, Ohio in 1998.

Always active in civic organizations and within his church, Elmer was instrumental in the formation and construction of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Conneaut. After moving to Lancaster, Ohio, Elmer was an active member of David Lutheran Church, Canal Winchester, and most recently, a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Lancaster.

In his later years, Elmer enjoyed painting and his landscaping responsibilities at the Decorative Arts Center in Lancaster.

Elmer is survived by his wife of 72 years, Phyllis, and their three daughters, Jane (Roy) Hart of Lancaster, OH, Lori (John) Crossmock of Springfield, IL, and Ellen (Thad) Smith of Marietta, GA. Elmer is also survived by six grandchildren, Bethany (Matthew) Lambert, Stephen (Jocelyn) Hart, Cheryl (Patrick) Marynowski, Linda (Charles) Riley, Zachary (Deremier) Smith, Alyssa Smith, and nine great grandchildren.  Elmer is also survived by his brother, Melvin Fundermark of Mentor, OH, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Matilda Fundermark, his step-mother, Helen Fundermark, and sister, Rita Shetina.

Caring Cremation® has taken place by the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, LANCASTER, OHIO 43130.

A memorial service will be held at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church at the convenience of the family.

Memorial gifts in Elmer’s name can be given to Fairhope Hospice, 282 Sells Rd., Lancaster, OH 43130, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 876 Grove St., Conneaut, OH, 44030 or St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 105 E. Mulberry St., Lancaster, OH 43130.

To send an online condolence, and sign the guest book, please visit www.funeralhome.com.