Elmer D. Cleaver

Elmer D. Cleaver, 80, passed away on July 3, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.

Elmer was born on April 5, 1945, in Sikeston, Missouri, to Autie and Cora (Willhite) Cleaver.

He was the youngest of seven children. After graduating from East High School, he proudly served his country in the United States Army as a military police officer with the Special Forces during the Vietnam Conflict.

On December 28, 1969, Elmer was united in marriage to Sharon Smith in Earlham, Iowa. Together, they shared 47 years of marriage until Sharon’s passing in 2017. They made their home in Des Moines, where they raised their family.

Elmer worked as a carpenter and was a proud member of Local 106. He had a lifelong passion for martial arts and taught karate during the 1980s. He also enjoyed car racing and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his daughters: Kimberely Hof and her children Kristina, Matthew, Cody and Brandon; Sheila Fierro and her daughter Brianna; and Erica Cleaver. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Kaidin and Aurora.

Elmer was preceded in death by his beloved wife Sharon, his parents, son-in-law Fred Hof and his siblings: Nellie, Frank, Jim, Doewer, Imogene, and Alice.

Elmer will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his quiet strength.

There will be a private family burial.