Charles "Bud" Elam

Charles J. “Bud” Elam, 98 passed away peacefully in his home on August 1, 2023.  Charles was born May 20th, 1925 in Ethel, Missouri, to Paul and Margaret (Pound) Elam.  He was married to Maride Arnold, the love of his life, on June 25,1948 in Queen City, Missouri.  Married 69 years, Maride preceded him in death in 2017.  Bud graduated in the class of 1943 from Wyaconda High School.  He continued his education at Missouri State Teachers College, graduating in 1952 with a B.S. in Business Education and Administration.  He received his Masters Degree in 1954.  Bud taught 2 years in public schools prior to joining the faculty at Northeast Missouri State University.  He worked at Northeast Missouri State University until his retirement in 1984.

Bud was a WW2 veteran and served in the Pacific Theater for 3 years.  While serving in the US Navy, he was awarded 3 Battle Stars, the Good Conduct medal, the Victory medal and spent time attached to a Marine Corps radar unit.

Bud was active in the Kirksville community where he served as President of the Kiwanis Club, President of the Kirksville Booster Club and President of the Kirksville Saddle Club.  He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge for over 60 years and a Shriner. He was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church of Kirksville.

Bud was preceded in death by his wife, his parents and two sisters, Maxine and Marline.  He is survived by 3 children, Barry (Gail) ,Garry (Mary) and Paula (Ty).  He is also survived by 5 granddaughters and 6 great grandchildren.

Bud enjoyed several hobbies including hunting, fishing, antiquing, and traveling. Bud’s favorite sport was baseball. He played in the minor leagues as a catcher for several years. His most memorable experience in baseball was catching the legendary Satchel Paige.

Of all the things Bud enjoyed, spending time with his family and friends were most important to him.

A private family graveside service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Park View Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.

Arrangements in the care of Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home; www.davisplaylehudsonrimer.com