Paul Russell Elsey

Paul Russell Elsey of Erie, Colorado passed away at this home on September 18, 2016, he was 78. Paul was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa on October 8, 1937 to Robert and Leota (Cahill) Elsey. At age 17 Paul enlisted in the U.S. Navy in November of 1954. The first ship he served on was the USS Cimarron in 1957. He served on many ships over the years of service, each ship with a different responsibility. During that time he earned outstanding marks from his superiors. In March of 1974 after serving for 20 years, his last assignment ended on the USS Sanctuary as a Chief Petty Officer.After retiring he moved to Longmont, Colorado where he met his wife Nancy aka Babe. The two were married on May 7, 1977. Little did Paul know he was going to receive yet another assignment, helping Nancy raise her four young children. The two of them built their home in Berthoud where they lived for the next 12 years. During this time Paul worked for United Energy and his brother Tom at Sunset Fence. He also had a number of various jobs including transportation.He enjoyed being with friends, the dog track and his favorite playing the lottery. He and Nancy enjoyed traveling in their motor home with their dogs, visiting with family and friends. He enjoyed the outdoors, going to his grandsons ball games as well as spending time with them. He will be greatly missed by his family.Paul is survived by his wife Nancy. Lynda (Steve) Davis, children Kyle and Courtney, Lois (Dave) Mogler, children Joshua, Jeremy and J y. Brian (Kari) Rech, children Breanna, Ciriana, Sarai. Leah (Kevin) Rech, children Cameron, Connor, Braden. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins.Paul was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Milton Elsey, Elsie Saunders, Betty Stapleton, Robert Elsey and Thomas Elsey, and a grandson Dalton Davis. Memorial contributions can be made to the MS Society or Rejoice Lutheran Church in care of Ahlberg Funeral Chapel.