Elmer A. Fode

Elmer A. Fode

July 26, 1938 - July 6, 2024

Elmer A. Fode of Fredericksburg, Virginia passed away July 6, 2024 with his wife and daughter by his side.

He is remembered in the hearts of his wife, Patsy Fode, his daughter and her husband, Angela and David Gentry, three grandchildren, Lydia, Michelle, and Matthew Gentry, and two great-grandchildren, Beau and Clayton Lochman.

Elmer was preceded in death by late parents, Ted and Lydia Fode, and siblings, Esther Schaal, Reinhold Fode, Clarence Fode, Alfred Fode, Richard Fode, Irene Scheeler, and Harold Fode.

Born in Lind, Wash., on July 26, 1938, Elmer held the childhood memories on his family wheat farm dearly, getting regular updates on the operation of the farm throughout his life. He was a graduate of Lind High School, Class of 1956, and received his bachelor's degree from the College of Notre Dame in 1973. He married his devoted wife of sixty-three years on March 17, 1961.

He served honorably in the United States Army at Fort Ord and Fort Myer.

After a brief stint with the Treasury Department, he completed his career with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 1992.

After retirement, Elmer explored his passion for woodworking and acquiring many unique collections including truck banks, keychains, and yardsticks from across the country. He stayed committed to his favorite football team, the Washington "Redskins," and devoted himself to his grandchildren. When Elmer was not busy in the basement, he could often be found working the yard, keeping it in pristine condition. He honored his German heritage through ancestry research and the occasional "Raus!" encouraging the grandkids to get a move on. Throughout his life, he enjoyed Americana, including the art of Norman Rockwell, music of Johnny Cash, and movies of John Wayne.

Elmer will be remembered as having a bright-eyed smile, a strong sense of duty to family, the uncanny ability to fix almost anything, and endless love for his wife. His daughter remembers him as a pillar of strength and safety. His grandchildren remember him as fiercely supportive of their hobbies, art, and education.

At a later date, Elmer will be laid to rest in Castlewood, Virginia, following a small ceremony for family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA.org), or any organization of your choice.