Michael Lee Elder

Michael “Mike” Lee Elder
October 6, 1949 – October 26, 2023
Michael Elder was born October 6, 1949 in Torrington, Wyoming. His parents, Irwin and Margret
“Billie” (Lathrop) Elder raised him and his two younger brothers, Scott and Mark, in Lander,
Wyoming. Mike was infected with polio virus at a young age. He was honored as the Easter Seals
poster child for Wyoming. Mike’s mother is credited with instilling in him, the determination to be self-sufficient
while growing up with a disability. Mike has been described by others as: a very supportive
person and protective of others.
After graduating from Fremont County Vocational High School in 1967, he attended the University of
Wyoming and then Casper College. Mike earned an associate degree in Liberal Arts from Casper
College. Mike had various employment endeavors; including communication for radio stations and
dispatching for law enforcement agencies. His long term employment consisted of being a cost
estimator for highway construction companies.
Mike married Linda (Edwards) Elder in 1974 in Casper, Wyoming and they were divorced after over
25 years of marriage.
Mike had many hobbies and interests. Mike had a passion for music and was a great musician. He was
self taught and dabbled in many instruments, becoming highly proficient in guitars and keyboards;
even played with Chris LeDoux when they both attended Casper College. He loved the outdoors
spending much of his free time hunting and fishing. He was also a skilled artist who enjoyed sketching
and wood carving.
Mike is survived by his brother, Mark (Dixie) Elder, sister-in-law, Barbara Elder; nieces, Amanda
McAlister and Brenda (Danny) Hoover; nephews, Jason Moore, Skyler Elder and Kolter Elder. Mike
was especially close to his cousins, Tommy and Kay Long. He was preceded in death by his parents
and brother, Scott Elder.