David "Mike" Elford

David "Mike" Elford, age 74 of Defiance, passed away on Thursday morning, August 1, 2024 at Mercy Defiance Hospital.   

He was born on July 11, 1950 to Howard "Jack" and Patricia (Huff) Elford in Flint, Michigan. Mike was a 1968 graduate of Ypsilanti High School. On October 5, 1974 he married Brenda Simpson, who survives. Mike proudly served our country in the U.S. Air Force from 1974 to 1984. 

Mike was a member of Defiance Eagles #372 which he frequented often. He worked at Defiance Metal Products for several years until his retirement in 2020. He enjoyed horseshoes, bowling, motorcycling, and camping in Jackson, Michigan. Mike was very quick-witted and will be greatly missed by his family and many good friends.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Brenda Elford of Defiance, his mother Patricia Elford of Mount Morris, MI, and his children, David Elford and Bryan (Laurie) Elford, all of Defiance. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, his sister, Jill (Kirk) Switzer, and brothers, Scott Elford, Steve (Nanette) Elford and Don Winkle. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Howard "Jack" Elford, daughter, Angie Langlois, and two grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 pm at the funeral home, with Celebrant Deb Miller officiating. Military honors will be conducted by VFW Post #3360.

Memorials are suggested to CHP Defiance Area Hospice, or to a charity of the donor's choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David "Mike" Elford, please visit our floral store.