He was born September 23, 1935, in Moultrie County, IL the son of Delmar and Ada (Brown) Elder. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, a sister Wilma Brandt and an infant son Randy Kevin Elder. Mr. Elder is survived by his loving wife of sixty one years, Francine Elder, three sons: Darin (Mary Ann) Elder of Tuscola, IL, Kevin Elder of Peoria, IL, and Brennan (Brenda) Elder of Seattle, WA, five grandchildren and two sisters, Eloise Quinley of Springfield, IL and Janet (Garry) Ernst of Charleston, IL.
Darrell was raised on a farm in Sullivan, IL. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Education at Eastern Illinois University in 1958 and then earned a Master’s degree in Education Administration at Northern Illinois University. He taught in Tempe Arizona and became a Teacher placement director at Arizona State University. Darrell returned to Springfield, where he raised his family and worked for the State of Illinois Teacher’s Retirement System for over 20year.
During this time, Mr. Elder faithfully attended and served in numerous capacities (Sunday School Teacher, choir member, youth sponsor, and board member) at West side Christian Church. Darrell was also an avid car enthusiast and belonged to the Cool Cruisers and Route 66 car clubs.
Darrell enjoyed a wonderful retirement, spending time in Arkansas, Florida and Illinois, traveling the world via cruise ship and enjoying several hobbies including car shows, golfing, wood-working and photography. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation and Funeral Service: The Elder family will greet family and friends at West Side Christian Church 2850 Cider Mill Ln., Springfield, IL from 9:00 am Saturday, September 15, 2018 until the time of a funeral service there at 11:00 am Saturday. Pastor’s Darin Elder and Michael Harney will officiate. Burial will be private in the Greenhill Cemetery, Sullivan, IL.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the West Side Christian Church 2850 Cider Mill Ln., Springfield, IL 62702
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
