EILRICH, Elmer G.

The Wickenburg Sun, Wickenburg, AZ August 9, 2000, p. A8 Elmer G. Eilrich of Wickenburg, passed away Aug. 3 at his home after a long battle with cancer. He was 85. Elmer was born in Chicago, Ill. on June 2, 1915. he moved to Bensenville, Ill., with his parents in 1929 where he finished his eighth grade in a one-room school house on Church Road, now honored as a historical building. His picture still hangs on the wall as a Class of 1930 graduated. Fresh out of eighth grade he started his first career as a water well driller, learning his trade from George Morris, a direct descendant of Lewis Morris who signed the Declaration of independence. In the 1950's Elmer branched out in oil well drilling until he fell ill in 1962 and sold his companies. In four years he made a comeback, starting not only a used car lot but also a swimming pool construction company. His wife Frances, a partner in the business, started a very active swimming pool supply store two later. They both retired in 1975. The couple lived in their motor home, traveled the U. S. A., joined FMCA (Family Motor Coach Association) and started looking for a good retirement area. Their FMCA number was a low one-F4673. Now their son Kurt has the number. They lived seven years in Mesa, but it was to busy. Then they found Wickenburg in 1978 and lived here every since. It's home. Elmer, Frances, and friend George Ruisi founded the Hassayampa Handgunners Club at the Wickenburg Sportsmen's Club Range in 1984. Elmer's family was his pride and joy. He is survived by his wife of 60 years., Frances, of Wickenburg and their five children; Margo, Kurt and Lamont of Bensenville, Ill., Marc of Doyle, Calif., and Calvin of Fernley, Nev.; 13 grandchildren: and his dog for the past 10 years, the schnauzer “Niki.” Frances suggests memorial contributions be made to R&R Retreat, Respite Care Program, attn: Mary Ackley Director, P.O. Box 2975, Wickenburg, Ariz. 85358 (for information call 1-520-684-2074), “Rest and Respite” for the caregivers caring for Alzheimers, stroke victims and/or Parkinson's or related dementia needing 24-hour assistance. Thanks to Redeemer Lutheran Church for providing a place for the program, but there is place for the program, but there is a need for its own building. The program started in 1992. Frey Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangement.