Elmer Thums, age 81, of Waukau, passed away on Monday, September 19, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center. He was born on February 1, 1930 in Rib Lake, the son of Leo and Anna (Hoffman) Thums. He married Sarah Becker at St. Vincent Catholic Church, in Oshkosh, on November 27, 1949. He was an avid reader, and lifelong learner. He never missed a deer hunting season from the time he was 16. He was a farmer at heart, who enjoyed the cycle of life, of the crops and animals, from seed to harvest; or driving his antique tractor around, or in his later years, taking the grandkids out on the Gator around the farm. He loved horses; taking care of them, watching them, going to auctions or horse pulls. He cherished dancing the polka and blue skirt waltz with his sweetheart Sarah. He liked poppy seed Birthday cake, or anything else his wife Sarah baked. Elmer loved and was proud of his grandchildren.

Elmer was loved and will be missed by his sons, Norman (Gloria) of Savannah, GA, Roger of Waukau, Dennis of Milwaukee, Ron of Portage; his daughter, Carol of Omro; his ten grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren; and son in law, Gilbert Juedes; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah; daughter, Phyllis Juedes; his parents, Leo and Anna; his brother, Alvin; sister, Adeline; brothers in law, Andy Mann and Walter Wilhelms.

A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. and at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 730 Madison Ave, Omro, on Thursday, September 22, 2011, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., with Fr. Joseph Mattern officiating. Elmer will be laid to rest at the Waukau Cemetery. A memorial is being established.