Elton Raymond PRIEL

In loving memory

January 23,1932 - June 29, 2025

Elton R. Priel grew up in Springville, New York. He Joined the Army and met his first wife, Shizuko Toyama. Many duty stations and four beautiful children, later settled in Jessup, Maryland. He was a man of many talents. He moved most of his family to Lake Havasu City, AZ, in 1976. He lost his first wife to cancer in 2001. He has been an avid bowler and a spunky dancer. His love for God has always been important and constant in his life. He lived in Utah with daughter, Sarah, for a few years. Moved to Post Falls, ID, and lived with his son, Tom, until he met Charlene Janson. They married September 28, 2019, and continued their fun filled Christian lifestyle.

As my niece wrote, "He has been the lighthouse of our family - the calm in the chaos, the steady hand through life's storm and the quiet strength we have all leaned on. His love is the kind that does not need words. It is in his eyes, his smile and the way he has always shown up for us, even in the smallest moments. Even though his journey has ended, his light still shines, guiding and reminding us what really matters - Love, family and staying true to who you are. There will never be another like him. We love you, Grandpa. Thank you for being our everything."

He was preceded in death by first wife, Shizuko Toyama. He is survived by his wife, Charlene Janson of Spokane, WA; brother, Ronnie (Charlane) Priel; brother, Leonard Priel; sisters, Carol, Alice, and Pat; daughter, Betty (Leroy) Kelly, of Havre De Grace, MD; daughter, Mary Ann (Denis) Forsha, of Crofton, MD; son, Tom (Chris) Priel, of Post Falls, ID; and daughter, Sarah Johnson, of Tremonton, UT; and several loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He has been referred to as the "Lighthouse of the family," a steady beacon for all. A Celebration of Life will be held at Southside Christian Church, on the South Hill, on July 19, 2025, at 2pm.