Christopher G. Elam

Christopher G. Elam passed away peacefully at his home in Coronado, California on July 6, 2022.

Chris was born on March 4, 1935, to Wilbur and Emma Magdalene Elam (affectionally known as Ebbie and Maggie), in Los Angeles California. He attended Hart High School in Saugus, California. Chris later joined the U.S. Forest service working in the Los Angeles National Forest, which led to his career with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. He married Elayne Krask in 1955, and they had Debora and Dennis. Sadly, Elayne passed away in 1959. He then met Joan his wife of almost 60 years. Chris and Joan had Chris Jr. and Tamara, and they raised their four children in Granada Hills, California.

He had a rewarding career with the LA County Fire Department, becoming the youngest to make the rank of Captain. He served until he was injured on a rescue operation. During his time in the Fire Department, he earned his bachelor’s degree from USC.

Chris went on to have a successful career in Risk Management working for Harbor Insurance, Occidental Petroleum, and the City of Los Angeles. During his years at Occidental, he traveled the world, and was able to bring Joan along for some exciting adventures. They visited places like China, Brazil, Iraq, Libya, Hong Kong, Africa, and Europe.

Chris started fishing as a very young boy at Rush Creek in the High Sierra’s with his father. His passion for fishing would stay with him his entire life. Chris and Joan bought a cabin in June Lake, California in 1967 where they continued to fish and vacation until Joan’s passing in 2020. He had a passion for flying his Piper Cherokee and held a Private Pilot’s license for over 25 years. He also loved USC football and Padres baseball.

Chris is survived by his four children, Debora, Dennis, Chris Jr., and Tamara; eight grandchildren, Krista, Silvio, Emily, Ryan, Celeste, Collin, Jake, and Katelyn; two great-grandchildren Jason and Griffin; and his sister, Frances Elam Clause. He was predeceased by his loving wife of nearly 60 years Joan Elam, his grandson Herbert William Iwer IV (Herbie), and his first wife Elayne Krask Elam.

Chris was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and brother. He was quiet but had a great sense of humor. He was a fighter to the end.

VOL. 112, NO. 41 - Oct. 12, 2022