Elmer Kuhlmann, Jr. of Lompoc died Tuesday, July 8, 2008 at the age of 79.

Elmer was born October 5, 1928 in Elgin, Minnesota to Elmer and Alvina Kuhlmann. Raised and educated in Elgin, he joined the United States Army in 1949 and served in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1986 he moved to Lompoc from Colorado to work for American Airlines as a mechanic in Santa Barbara. He retired in 2004.

Elmer was an active member of the Bethany Lutheran Church and the American Legion in Lompoc. In his retirement years he stayed busy tinkering on engines, leather tooling and working with wood and stained glass. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing the harmonica.

Elmer is survived by his wife of 56 years Marlene Kuhlmann of Lompoc, sons Richard (Lori) of Hollandale, Minnesota, Gary Kuhlmann of Santa Maria, Michael (Cheryl) Kuhlmann of Polson, Montana and Kristian Kuhlmann of Lompoc, daughters Susan Peabody of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Dawn (Mike) Cronk of Meridian, Idaho, 15 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Orville Kuhlmann of Plainview, Minnesota and Norman Kuhlmann of Pine Island, Minnesota, and his sisters Lucille Kuhlmann of Plainview, Minnesota and Alta Arimon of Silver Springs, Maryland.

Pastor Joe Byrd will direct a memorial service at 1:00 pm on Thursday, July 10, 2008 at Bethany Lutheran Church. Cremation will be followed by private inurnment.

Arrangements are under the direction of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary.