Elmer Walter Thaden

Thaden, Elmer MADISON/LODI–Elmer Thaden, born in Dane, Wis. on May 8, 1922, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014, in Templeton, Calif. Elmer grew up in Madison, graduated from Central High and married Alice Kaiser. They raised two children, Penny and Michael, in Cottage Grove, Wis. Elmer farmed 40 acres there until he moved to Lodi with wife, Alice. He worked as a mechanic and body man, before becoming a full time employee at Dream Lanes bowling alley. Elmer worked at Dream Lanes for many years, and was a bowling instructor for several of those years. He was a local favorite in bowling circles and became a Hall of Fame Bowler. Elmer and his family were active members of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church in Cottage Grove. He moved to California to live with his daughter in 2013. Elmer played cards in Penny's home twice a week with neighbors and loved rides in the car just to look at the scenery. He is survived by his children, Penny (Jerry) Takier, and Michael Thaden; grandchildren, Chris Takier, and Tony and Ricky Thaden; and great-grandchildren, Becky, Ryan and Emma Takier. Elmer was preceded in death by his wife, Alice; a grandson, Jerry Richard, Takier Jr.; and all of his brothers and sisters. A graveside service will be held at ROSELAWN MEMORIAL PARK, 401 Femrite Drive, Monona, at 1 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 5, 2015. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420