DWAYNE ELDER

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dwayne Patrick Elder age 64 years, who left this world peacefully on Monday, September 22, 2025, in the Oncology Unit at the TBRHSC. Born in Port Arthur on December 4, 1960 he was predeceased by his parents; Raymond and Irja Elder. Words cannot express how deeply and lovingly he will be missed by his wife Elsa of 44 years; children Steven (Tarja) and Christopher, grandchildren; Weston, Everett, Bo; brothers Dennis (Sandy) and David; nephews Andrew (Julee), Hogan (Amanda), nieces Rita (Andrew), Jennifer (Tom) and Stephanie (Micah). Dwayne was a loving husband and best friend to his wife for almost 50 years, a great father (who always put his family first) and grandfather (who enjoyed cheering on his 3 grandsons at their hockey games). We will all miss his easy demeanor, sense of humour and laughter. Dwayne worked hard all his life. He left home at the early age of 16 and made his way in life. He graduated in 1979 from Hammarskjold High School (where he met his high school sweetheart and love of his life Elsa, who became his wife on August 29, 1981). Dwayne worked for over 30 years at the local paper mill (currently named Thunder Bay Pulp and Paper). He built a wonderful life together with his wife and enjoyed sharing in the raising of their two sons: Steven and Christopher. In his early years he enjoyed golfing in the men's league at Emerald Greens and bowling in a mixed league at Playtime Lanes. Later in his life he took much joy in travelling in the Caribbean, Hawaii, (parts USA), and going on cruises. He had a deep passion for music and enjoyed going to live concerts. His joy of entertaining was one of his favourite pastimes which included cooking up fabulous meals for his family and friends who also engaged in his love of playing indoor games such as Rummoli, Mexican train, cards and various board games. He retired in January 2020 and loved living out at their camp (Elders Eden) at Dog Lake for as much time as our northern climate would allow. He spent nearly 20 years creating a cozy haven where you came to relax and unwind. He enjoyed taking to the trails on their ATV, or making trails on his snowmobile, going boating, warming up at the bonfire, grilling on the BBQ and making pizzas in his pizza oven. A big part of hosting their family and friends included playing outdoor games such as horseshoes, bocce, ladder ball, lawn darts and corn hole to name a few. Dwayne relished a peaceful, easy life at home and at the lake with his beloved wife Elsa. They spent much of their time enjoying their newly built sauna and Lakehouse, bonfires under the stars, listening to music and enjoying a cold one. A celebration of Dwayne's life will be held for family and friends on Saturday, October 25 at 12:00 pm in the Marco Polo Room at the DaVinci Centre. The family would like to give special thanks to all the staff at the TBRHSC Oncology Unit who took such great care of a humble man who never asked for anything; but you knew just what he needed. Arrangements have been entrusted to Northwest Funeral Alternative Inc., 428 Balmoral Street.