Cover photo for Elmer "Fuddy" Horstmeyer's Obituary
Elmer "Fuddy" Horstmeyer Profile Photo
1932 Elmer 2019

Elmer "Fuddy" Horstmeyer

1932 — January 1, 2019

Formerly of Woodbine

Elmer Edward (Fuddy) Horstmeyer, age 87, passed from this life peacefully on June 16, 2019, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Elmer is survived by his wife of 64 years, Johanna (Wilson) Horstmeyer, his two daughters; Caren (Alton) and her husband Gary, Lynne (Ruffcorn) and her husband Milo; and his two sons, Eric Horstmeyer and his wife Michelle, Martin Horstmeyer and his wife Melinda; plus 11 granddaughters, 2 grandsons, 4 great granddaughters, 3 great grandsons (plus one under development).

Elmer was born on March 9, 1932, in McClelland, Iowa. He is preceded in death by one infant son; his parents Edward and Clara (Hiller) Horstmeyer; three sisters and one brother; Ella (Stamp) his twin, Erma (Nihsen), Ellsie (Burhenne), and Bernie Horstmeyer. He also now joins a class of friends that were always considered family; his best buddies Keith, Ed, Joe, Frank, Roy, and Jewel. Friends forever, family always.

He had many interests in his youth, but perhaps his most loved and practiced pastime was roller-skating. His skill on the wheels was unparalleled. Gliding backwards on one skate effortlessly, smiling at the crowds of gawking wannabees, he swooped past Jody “Hanna” Wilson and stole her heart.

Two years later on May 7, 1955, Elmer and Hanna were married at the Saint Francis Church in Council Bluffs, Iowa.  They moved to Woodbine, Iowa, in 1965, where they hung their hats until 2005. Since then they have been splitting their summers and winters between Colorado and Arizona.

Elmer grew up farming with his father and came to love working the earth.

During the early 1970’s, Elmer continued in this vein by starting his own Caterpillar construction business, Horstmeyer Construction. Over the years, he earned the name “Cat Man” from his family and friends. He so enjoyed being outside clearing trees, building terraces, and showcasing his skills with that giant machine.

Outgoing and active, Elmer could never be still. Always on the move, always inquisitive, always full of questions and insights, he was never afraid to share his opinion or offer advice. Elmer loved people and he was fun! He loved music and dancing. He and Jody became square dancers and were never happier. All of his kids and grandkids learned to dance upon Grampa Fuddy’s toes to many of his favorite polka tunes.

Elmer loved camping; traveling across the U.S. and Canada he made friends everywhere. He and Jody were “Snow Birds” and would winter in their 5th-wheel in Arizona as soon as a chill would touch the air. A full and happy life he lived and we who knew and loved him have been blessed by his amazing presence. Rest well, Elmer, until we see each other once again.

The family has requested in lieu of flowers, and as a tribute to Elmer’s giving nature, please donate to your favorite charity or offer a helping hand to your neighbor. In respect of Elmer’s wishes there will be no public services. The family thanks you for all your gracious thoughts and prayers.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Elmer "Fuddy" Horstmeyer, please visit our flower store.

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Fouts Funeral Home- Dunlap

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