Elmer Gunter, 81, of New London, died Monday, November 28, 2011 at The Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Firelands in New London. He was born in Wilder, TN, on December 13, 1929. Elmer moved to Elyria in 1953, lived in Rochester for several years and resided in New London since 1991. He worked 45 years for the Local 310 Building Laborers Union in Cleveland where he worked on many commercial construction projects. Elmer served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a member of the VFW in Crab Orchard, TN. Elmer enjoyed woodworking, airplanes, fishing and gardening. His biggest joy was spending time with his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Ida; children, Patricia (Gary) Sonewald of Rochester, Theresa Slone of Wellington, Danny Gunter of New London, Dennis (Ellen) Gunter of Crestview, FL, Duyane Gunter of New London and Lena Anderson of Williamstown, WV; thirteen grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; sister, Bennie Sherrill of Avon and brother, Kenny Gunter of TN. Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Ethie Gunter; grandson, Shannon Gunter; sisters, Barbara Davenport and Alma Mullinax and brothers, Edgar, Eugene and Clinton Gunter. Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, December 1 at Eastman Funeral Home, 200 West Main Street, New London. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at the Rochester Cemetery on Griggs Road with military rites.