Elias Wolfman

Elias Wolfman, son of Frank and Libby Wolfman and longtime resident of Fort Bragg, passed away peacefully in Olympia, Washington, on April 28th, 2024, at the age of 89. His remarkable journey touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of passion and dedication. Born in Brooklyn, New York, on January 5, 1935, Elias excelled academically and started Queens College at age 16. He discovered his love for competition in athletics and became a track star, breaking many records and inspiring those around him. His determination and zest for adventure led him westward to pursue optometry at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, where Elias met Jennifer Martha Kornmann, whom he later married. They settled in Los Angeles, where they started their family of three children. In 1975, they embarked on a new chapter, moving north to Fort Bragg. Dr. Wolfman served the Fort Bragg community as an optometrist on Laurel Street for four decades. He truly enjoyed connecting with his patients; it was the people that Elias loved most about practicing optometry. Meanwhile, Jennifer, also an entrepreneur, opened a beloved bookstore first on Franklin Street, and later moved to Redwood Avenue, sharing her love of books with Fort Bragg. Elias and Jennifer divorced in 2000. Elias was a great outdoorsman and shared his passions generously. He climbed mountains across the Pacific Northwest and Europe, including Mont Blanc. Elias and Jennifer also greatly enjoyed backpacking and skiing, teaching their family activities that they still enjoy. But fly fishing was his true and absolute passion. It was always a treat to hear Elias's stories of the beautiful trout he caught during his fishing adventures; he so admired their beauty that he remembered the most intricate details of each one. Dr. Wolfman's other interests included playing classical guitar, ham radio, and practicing calligraphy. In his final years, Elias resided in Olympia, Washington, close to his two daughter. He is survived by his two daughters,Melinda Posner and Sonia Wolfman (Piera Damonte), and his two granddaughters, Adrienne Posner of Portland, Oregon, and Jackie Posner of Olympia, Washington. Elias was preceded in death by Jennifer Wolfman, his son, Aaron Wolfman, and his partner Elizabeth Ryan. A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 3, at Rose Memorial Park.