Kenneth Elms

Kenneth Raymond “Bob” Elms, age 72 passed away January 1, 2011 at his home in the Cassie area of Lake Buchanan. He was born in Leakey, Texas on February 26, 1938, to William and Norma (Dotson) Elms. “Chief” as he was also known, was married to Charolette (Hannemann) for 50 years.

During a 28 year career in the Army Bob and Charolette lived overseas in France, Germany, Jakarta Indonesia, and Belgrade Yugoslavia. He also served in Korea and Vietnam. Bob retired at the rank of Sergeant Major and received numerous medals and awards, most notably 3 Purple Hearts, Bronze Star Medal, and Air Medal.

Bob and Charolette later made their home in New Orleans, Fort Huachuca, Arizona, Redstone Arsenal Alabama, Columbus, Ohio, and finally at Cassie on Lake Buchanan.

During a second career, he worked 18 years as a Correctional Sergeant for the Arizona Department of Corrections in Douglas, Arizona. During that time he created a Tactical Officers Academy and was also TSU Commander. For the past 4 years he served as Chief of the Cassie Volunteer Fire Department.

In addition to his wife Charolette, Bob is survived by his sister Jennie (Sissy) Koch, step-sister Angie Mouser, step-brothers Larry McGee and Michael Pierce, and Charolette’s sister Barbara and husband Phil. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 22, 2011, at the Cassie V.F.D. located near Lake Buchanan. The service will be conducted by Reverend Michael Wiggins, Chaplain of the Cassie V.F.D. Full military honors will be conducted by the Highland Lakes Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made the Cassie V.F.D. c/o P.O. Box 184 Buchanan Dam, Texas 78609.

The family extends thanks to members of the Cassie V.F.D. and to Seton Highland Lakes Hospital and Hospice for their care during his brief battle with cancer. Condolences and thoughts may be offered at www.clementswilcoxburnet.com.

Arrangements and cremation entrusted to Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home Burnet, Texas.