Robert Carol Elsey

January 15, 1928 ~ February 16, 2024

Robert Carol Elsey, 96, of Marcellus, passed away on Friday, February 16, 2024, with his family at his side. 

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at Calvary Bible Church, 27032 Marcellus Hwy., Dowagiac, MI. Interment will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery, Marcellus. Visitation will take place from 5-8 pm on Tuesday, February 20, at Clark Chapel, 405 Center St., Dowagiac. Memorial contributions in Robert’s name may be made to Calvary Bible Church. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.clarkch.com. 

Robert was born on January 15, 1928, to Harvey and Christine (Cowham) Elsey in Dowagiac. He graduated from Marcellus High School and continued his education through Michigan State University. In 1948, he married Velda Lawson, she preceded him in death in 1958. On July 31, 1965, he married Mary Fankhauser. 

Professionally, Robert worked as a draftsman at South Bend Lathe Co. for ten years. He then opened Badger Hill Farms which he operated for five decades, primarily focusing on grain and hog farming, but also supplied a lot of horse hay. Known for his strong work ethic, when he wasn’t farming Robert enjoyed splitting, stacking, and burning wood. A dedicated member of Calvary Bible Church for 73 years, he served as a Deacon and Bible Teacher for over 50 years. Robert was also active with Calvary Bible Academy and served many years on the school board.

Robert is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary Elsey; children, David (Bethany) Elsey, Michael (Linda) Elsey and Debra Burke; grandchildren, Laura (Lonnie) Ramsey, David Jr. (Megan) Elsey, Mary (Derek) Fankhauser, Nicole (Bradley) Hover, Emily (David Ware) Elsey and William III (Nikki) Personette; great-grandchildren, Terrisa, Andrea, Michaiah, Emma, Carlos III, Aaron, David III, Nyla, Mena, Aden, Lisa, Jackson and Elliot; adopted granddaughter, Candy (Will) Glassford; adopted great-grandchildren, Matthew, Payton and Aaron. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Christine Elsey; first wife, Velda (Lawson) Elsey and siblings, Clare Knapp and Howard Elsey.