Gerald R. "Bill" Elzey

Elzey Gerald R. "Bill" Elzey, 92, passed peacefully September 12, 2014. He was family oriented and at age 13, he spent late nights earning money for his family setting bowling pins at Burkholz's. WWII U.S. Army Veteran, who honorably served in Gen. Patton's Third Army, fought at the Battle of the Bulge. After the war he married Donna J. Otto, June 12, 1945, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in German Village. They lived in German Village until 1964, when they moved to the Northwest area of Columbus. Formerly employed at Seagraves. He and Donna together built their successful family business, Carpets by LZ. They retired to Ft. Myers, FL in 1986. Bill and Donna enjoyed time with their family, friends and as a couple enjoyed playing cards, dancing, golfing and traveling. He enjoyed being physically active and remained active until he passed. Competitive sports included fast pitch softball, bowling and golfing. He continued golfing until the time of his passing. Active community member and participated in many civic groups including: American Legion, Columbus Maennerchor, Home Plate Club, Masonic Temple, National/Local chapters of Ex-POWs, St. Francis Xavier society, and Swiss Club. For many years, he was part of the Charity Newsies helping those less fortunate in the community. He was active in the church at St. Timothy's Catholic Church, St. Mary's of German Village and in recent years a faithful member of St. Mary of Groveport. Preceded in death by wife of 66 years, Donna, son William D. "Doug", his parents John W. and Elizabeth O., siblings John, Bob and Marge Wilson. Survived by daughters, Judith (Dick) Matz, Lauren Sims (aka Anita Elzey), Parker, CO.; grandchildren, Cory Elzey, Sarah (Jon) Rees-Simonton, Ashley Rees-Guerrero, and Sean Boland, all from Parker, CO.; great grandchildren, Eli and Kylee Guerrero, Sally Elzey; siblings, Richard (Jean), Betty (Chuck) Wilson; cousin, Dick (Jane) Donovan; brothers-in-law, Bob Wilson and Fred (Sharon) Henkel; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Friends received Thursday from 9-10 a.m. at St. Mary Church, 5684 Groveport Rd., Groveport, OH 43125, with Memorial Mass at 10 a.m. Burial with military honors at St. Joseph Cemetery. Father Richard Metzger celebrant. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to St. Mary Church of Groveport. Arrangements under the care of the MAEDER-QUINT-TIBERI Funeral Home, (614) 444-1185. To view the complete obituary, please visit www.MaederQuintTiberi.com