Obituary of Jack Anthony Elzer

Jack Elzer passed away peacefully at home in Scotts Valley surrounded by his family who loves him so much. He was born in Canton, Ohio to Ona and Anthony (Tony) Elzer. Jack's mother passed away when he was 5. In 1948, his father, Tony, Jack and sister, Rosemary moved to Scotts Valley. Jack attended Santa Cruz High School and graduated in 1952. Jack's father purchased land and he and Jack operated a dairy farm for many years in Scotts Valley. In 1955 Jack entered the Army for 2 years and rose to rank of Sergeant at the radar facility in White Plains New York. He also served in the National Guard Reserves. Upon his return home, he went to work for the County of Santa Cruz as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator working on the roads, ditches and clearing river channels. He loved the outdoors and the job gave him great pleasure. In 1972, Friend Stone asked him to become the first Public Works Director for the newly forming City of Scotts Valley. It was a wonderful opportunity and challenge for him. He retired from that position in 1986. Jack became a Mason and in 1969 became a 32nd Degree Master Mason in the Scottish Rite. Jack was also a Masonic coach. In 2003 Jack married Linda Foy (Arndt) and became the step-dad to Rebecca Arndt, Daniel Arndt, Kelly Arndt, & Grandpa to Ashley, Dylan and Gracen Arndt (they called him "Jackpa"). He was a great joy to all of us and our memories of his love and laughter will always bring us comfort. Jack loved time at his cabin and especially going fishing on his pontoon boat. Anyone who knew Jack appreciated and will sadly miss his wonderful sense of humor, honesty and work ethic. A Memorial and Celebration of Jack's life will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 31st at Calvary Chapel, 1500 Green Hills Road, Scotts Valley, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jack's name to Hospice of Santa Cruz County.