Albert Carl Elka

Wellston - Albert Carl Elka, of Wellston passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at home with family by his side. He was 73.

Al was born on October 14, 1952, in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Carl and Ethel (McLaughlin) Elka. He grew up and attended school in the Willis, Michigan area and was a graduate from Lincoln Consolidated High School.
On March 17, 1973, he entered into marriage with the former Susan Marie Rau in Livonia. Celebrating over 52 years together and the birth of four wonderful children.

A man of many names, "Al", "Big Al", "Papa Squash", or just Albert, but regardless of the name if you knew him was to appreciate him.  Albert worked in roofing and construction for many years until his love for the outdoors blossomed into another career, processing deer. Al and Sue started in a corner of their kitchen eventually growing to a separate building altogether and over 300+ clients as they helped those with a successful hunt.  Albert was an avid outdoorsman, fishing many of the area's rivers, hunting just about anything and everything.  And, when not on the prowl he could be outside working around the property, in the gardens or tending to the flowers.  

Albert is survived by his loving wife, Susan Elka of Wellston; his children, Joy Ruetz of Wellston, Beth (Jeromy) Werra of Prudenville,  Warren Elka of Boyne Falls, Amanda (Jeff Wyckoff) Elka of Flint; Al's special kids, Casey Yager and Brandon Wright; seven grandchildren, Jordan, Zachary, Mary,  Kolby, Ava, Zane, and Destiny; his eagerly anticipated first great-granddaughter, Maya, in just a short time; his mother-in-law, Mary Rau of Harrison; his nieces and nephews, as well as many other loving family members and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Charles; and a sister, Edna.

A celebration of life and time of sharing will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025 at the Norman Township Hall, located at 1273 Seaman Road, Wellston, MI 49689, beginning at 4pm until 7pm. Memorial contributions may be directed to Autism Support of Michigan at, autism-mi.org, or PO Box 45, Bannister, MI 48807. 

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.Hitesman-Holdship.com   The family is being served by the Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.  

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