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Michael Elsner Obituary
65, teacher, fighter for social justice, jokester, avid Cleveland sports fan, and dear friend of many died on December 9, 2019 after a short but fierce battle with pancreatic cancer.
He was born to Sidney and Jean Elsner on April 11, 1954 in Cleveland, Ohio, where he grew up. (Some wonder if he ever really grew up.) He graduated from the University of Arizona and earned his master's and PhD from American University. He taught sociology, criminology, and criminal justice at Howard University and Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., William Paterson University in New Jersey, and Northern Arizona University. He founded the Institute for Social Justice in Tucson.
He is survived by Peggy Hutchison, his spouse, partner, and soulmate who laughed at his antics for close to 40 years; brother, David Elsner and sister-in-law, Michelle Gaspar of Chicago; brother, Larry Elsner and sister-in-law, Benita Rubinett of Austin; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Teri Hutchison Issenmann and Vince Issenmann of Tucson; sister-in-law, Patty Yates of Tucson; niece and nephew, Jessica and Kevin Perske of Phoenix; nieces, Sara Yates of Seattle and Sophie Elsner of Houston. And Lily, their besotted Airedale terrier.
Throughout his life, Michael was heavily involved in progressive community causes. He volunteered at Primavera Foundation and CASA of Pima County, was a precinct committee member for the Pima County Democratic Party, and served on the boards of the National ACLU, Arizona ACLU and Wingspan.
He will be sorely missed for his passion, intelligence, sense of humor, tenacity, and being. He was a mensch. An informal gathering in his memory will be held in the spring. For those so inclined, please donate to Primavera Foundation, Mission Garden, Guatemala Medical Aid and Acupuncture Project, or the charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Elsner
Susan Tarrence
January 9, 2020
Dear Peggy,
Stephen and I are sending our biggest hugs. We know you and Michael meant so much to each other. May you see each other in your dreams and may your 40 years of shared days bring you peace and smiles. Love, Susan and Stephen
Trisha Ingalls
December 30, 2019
Peggy, I am so very sorry for your loss. I am holding you and your family in my heart always.
Nita Torch
December 17, 2019
Dear Larry and family,
So sorry for your loss.
Nita Singer Torch
December 16, 2019
Dearest Peggy, I am so sad and shocked. He was one of a kind, and such a kind and generous person. His combination of intelligence, wit, humor, and love will be missed. It was always obvious how much you two loved each other and it makes me cry now. I wrap my arms around you and send you love, always, each day and each hour. All my love, Esther
Felipe W
December 15, 2019
Knew Michael since we attended UA/Guadalajara summer school in '77 and worked together at Superior Court CVC/PTS, never saw him compromise his integrity or quit striving to provide equal justice for all in Tucson. Prayers to Peggy and his family.
Ramona Grijalva
December 15, 2019
Raul and I are so sorry to hear of the passing of Michael. We had no idea that he was sick. Please know that our hearts are breaking for you and your family. He was such a special guy..
Milton and Margo Jamail y Gutierrez
December 15, 2019
Dearest Peggy, we are profoundly sorry to learn of Michael's passing. He always put a smile on our faces. I know you adored each other. Te mandamos muchísimos fuertes abrazos querida amiga y te acompañamos en tu dolor.
Amy Friedman Broman
December 15, 2019
Michael's parents and mine (Elaine and Eli Friedman) we're friends all their lives, and Michael was someone I hung out with a lot in high school. He was always a sweet, gentle soul with just the right amount of snark. I wish you,, Peggy, and all of the family my heartfelt condolences on the loss os such a good man.
Ken Kennon
December 15, 2019
Dear Peggy, my heart aches. We read out with love and hugs, dear one.
Renee Greenberg
December 15, 2019
So sorry for your loss, Michael was a great friend. Comfort to you and your family. I grew up with Michael in Cleveland
Gail Feuer
December 14, 2019
Dear Peggy,
It was such a delight when you and Michael came to visit us in our home in Cleveland. I will treasure those memories. I hope your memories give you comfort at this time. Love, Gail and Howard
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