The funeral of Elmer Leroy Danser, the late husband of Patricia Gail Danser, will take place at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens, at 11 a.m., Saturday May 22. Pastor Kevin Cain will be officiating the Memorial Service. Full military honors will be conferred by Westover VFW No. 9916 and Air Force Military Honor Guard. During the service, music will be presented by Stephen Holter playing the bagpipes to commemorate Leroy’s love of family, country and the Lord.
Elmer Leroy Danser, 83, passed from this world to the next on Oct. 4, 2020, with his family by his side. Leroy was at peace with the comfort of those who loved him holding his hand.
Leroy was born June 27, 1937, in Tunnelton, to Elmer Lee and Mary Delia Fowler Danser. Leroy was one of 10 siblings and his nickname was “Champ.” Leroy was always the rock and center of his family. From his Preston County beginnings, the family later moved to Morgantown.
He joined the Air Force after High School with a long career as a skilled tradesman working as a coal miner, carpenter, stationary engineer and retired from the Department of Energy in 1999 as an electrician.
Leroy married the love of his life, Patricia Gail Forbes, on June 27, 1957, and just celebrated 63 years of marriage. Leroy is survived by Patricia and five children, which include Vera (Bob) Bryan, Sandy (Bob) Birurakis, Kande (Bill) Brandt, Leroy (Shari) Danser and Tim (David Campana) Danser.
In addition to Leroy’s five children, he is survived by grandchildren, Chris (Julie) Danser, Tiffany Danser (Chad Hughes), Sheila (Austin) Danser, Jessica (Ricky) Sanchez, Seth Rush, Billy (Stacy) Brandt and Misty Brandt; and great-grandchildren, Tyrail, Alex, Kaleb, Savannah, Preston, Timmy, Kayona, Isaiah, Luna, Lane, Percise, Skyler, Bryon, Layden, Shayla and Gunner. Leroy was so proud of each and every one of his grandchildren, sharing special relationships that will carry on his legacy.
Leroy is also survived by three siblings, Gladys (Daniel) Vincent, Glenda (Ray) Martin and Deloris Dewitt. Leroy would also like to say goodbye to many cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews. Preceding Leroy in death were his parents; brothers, Waldo, Walter, Delmas, Roger and Jimmy; sister, Rosemary; and first granddaughter, Holly Christina Danser.
Anyone who knew Leroy knew his home was his castle. Leroy built his family home in 1969 with the help of his father, family and friends. The family moved in Christmas Eve 1969, which was his greatest gift ever to the ones he loved. The porch was a favorite location of the home over the years and all were welcome to become part of the Danser family. The porch served large family gatherings or as a place to sit in his rocking chair, share stories, talk politics, plan road trips and as a place to wave at neighbors while enjoying a summer breeze. When not relaxing on the porch, Leroy’s favorite pastime was riding one of his lawn mowers cutting grass many times a week. He also loved spoiling his three cats. Leroy always fancied himself as a cowboy with an elaborate collection of boots and shirts to make any old time country singer envious.
Family was very important to him. Leroy loved his home, family and his final words to his family were “I love you,” before he drifted off in a peaceful sleep. His lessons of life will be remembered by those who loved him.
Friends and Family are invited to join the Danser family as we celebrate the life of a husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend.
