Elmer "Jack" L. Taylor, 94, from Wamego, peacefully transitioned on Sunday, August 27th, at Ascension Via Christi Health Hospital in Manhattan. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children, enjoying hisfavorite country songs and sharing stories. His family will cherish his remarkable legacy characterized by dedication, service, and enduring love.
Born on June 9, 1929, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Elmer Lee Taylor was the beloved son of Clarence Allen and Clara May (Popejoy) Taylor.
Elmer's journey led him through distinguished careers and across continents, touching the lives of many along the way. Elmer served in the US Army from 1947-1956 and reenlisted from 1963-1981. He served in Korea, Vietnam, Germany, Ft Hood, Texas and Ft Riley, Kansas. Retiring as a sergeant first class in October 1981. He served in both the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War. He was recognized for his 25+ years of service to his country with numerous awards including three bronze stars. It was during his military service he met Hui Sun Yu, his wife of 54 years, who survives at the home. They married on May 23, 1969, in Seoul, South Korea, and lived in both Manhattan and Wamego, Kansas.
“Jack” as he was known by his loved ones and neighbors was a kind man who simply saw himself as a farm boy from Arkansas. Following his military career, he was employed in insurance sales at the National Insurance Company. Together with his wife, he dedicated 22 years to the Manhattan and Kansas State community, pioneering the first international grocery store, Manhattan International Foods.
Elmer's devotion extended to his family. He is survived by his children Kimberly Taylor of San Rafael, CA; Sandra (Sande) Taylor (Ted Pahl) Pahl of Burlington, NC; Mary Taylor-Blasi (Daryl Blasi) of Chicago, IL and James Taylor of Manhattan. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Theodore Pahl, Amelia Taylor-Blasi,Ethan Pahl, Logan Taylor-Blasi and numerous nephews and nieces and adopted students from the Kansas State community.
In his final retirement, he moved to Wamego to garden and walk five miles a day around the pond. He loved playing Wii with his children and grandchildren and was proud of his perfect unbeatable bowling score. He prioritized his family and enjoyed playing with his grandchildren and teaching them the “secretsauce” to fishing. He will be missed for his wonderful storytelling and laughing at his own dad jokes.
Elmer was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Harold Taylor, Eva English, and Everett Taylor.
A Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 7th at Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home & Cremation in Manhattan. Inurnment will be at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Manhattan, KS.
The legacy he leaves behind will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to: KSU Foundation, 1800 Kimball Ave., Ste 200, Manhattan, KS 66502, pleaseindicate fund C38478.