Joseph J. Elias

Joseph J. Elias Lansing Age 89, died in his home. He served in the US Air Force from 1943 to 1945. He was a resident of Lansing since 1949, a member of and active usher at St. Casimir Church, and a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a Post Master for the US Postal Service and a volunteer at Ingham Regional Medical Center. He was a strong and independent man. He outsmarted the grim reaper several times to the amazement and joy of his friends and family. He vowed he would not leave his home until "the good Lord took me". And, as usual, he got what he wanted. He was dad, pop, Jiddo, uncle, cousin and patriarch to his family and friends. He will always be remembered for his extreme generosity, his wit, his flirtatiousness and that twinkle in his eye when he laughed and smiled. Joseph was preceded in death by his wife, Sophia; one brother and five sisters. He is survived by his sons, Dennis C. (Sheryl) Of Scottsdale and Joseph F. (Kim) of Mason; daughter, Miriam (William) Norris of Leslie; 5 grandchildren, Ryan, Lindsay (Colby), Jordan, Susan and Crystal. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He will be dearly missed by all that knew him. For those who knew him, then you know what he would say, "What are you gonna do! Arrivederci"! Celebration of the Funeral Mass will be Wednesday, December 15, 2010, 11:00 a.m. at St. Casimir Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Bill Lugger as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends, Tuesday, December 14, 2010, from 6-8 p.m. at the Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Home, Lansing Chapel where a rosary will be prayed at 6:45 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Casimir Catholic Church in memory of Joseph. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.palmerbush.com.