Elmer William St. John

Elmer William St. John

Clarence

Elmer William St. John, age 75 of Clarence, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. A visitation will be held on Friday, February 20 from 5-7 p.m. at Chapman Funeral Home in Clarence. A celebration of Elmer’s life will be held in the spring.

Elmer was born on February 23, 1950 to Earl and Elsie (Stoecker) St. John in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He married Kathy Skinner on April 15, 1983 in Tipton.

Elmer is survived by his wife Kate; daughter Lindsey (Dave) Doscher of Clarence; brothers Joe of Clarence, John of Cedar Rapids, and Tom (Teri) of Marion; and sister-in-law Phyllis St. John.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jim and Arthur; sister Barbara Klemme; and sister-in-law Pat St. John.

Elmer proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged after his dedicated service. After returning home from Vietnam, Elmer began working at Clarence Ford Motors, where he built a reputation as a skilled and dependable mechanic. He continued his career as a diesel mechanic at various places over the years, always taking pride in honest, hands-on work. His final place of employment was Xerxes Corporation, where he carried that same work ethic until the end of his career.

Outside of work, Elmer embraced life’s simple pleasures. He was a devoted fan of classic Westerns, especially those starring John Wayne. He rarely missed cheering on the Chicago Cubs or the Iowa Hawkeyes, along with following other sports he enjoyed. Elmer also cherished “Sunday Fundays” at Victory Lane, where laughter, good company, and camaraderie were always on the menu. Even more special to him were family card games filled with snacks, refreshments, friendly competition, and the kind of memories that last a lifetime.