The Oregonian, Portland, OR., January 11, 1997, page B6

Includes portrait

WALTER SHERMAN ELMER

            Walter Sherman Elmer was born April 19, 1905 in Glenwood, Wash.  He passed away January 9, 1997 in Portland, Ore.  Walter was raised in Troutlake, Wash. where he worked for the U.S. Forest Service from 1923 to 1928.  He moved to Portland and worked for the Roseway Dairy at the Grand Central Market. 
            In 1931 he married Dorothy M. Hutchinson from Portland.  Later in 1939 Walter opened his first restaurant “Elmer’s Milky Way” on S.E. 48th & Hawthorne Blvd.  In 1946 he purchased the Medical Arts Coffee Shop in the Medical Arts Building and later the Polly Ann Grill in the Terminal Sales Building.  Walter Elmer was the founder and owner of “Elmer’s Colonial Pancake and Steak House” which he started in February 1960 on N.E. 82^nd Ave. by the Banfield Freeway. Over the next 25 years, his business developed to 30 restaurant franchises in 7 western states.  In 1970 Walter opened the Matterhorn Swiss Restaurant on 82nd & East Burnside. 
            Walter Elmer was active in skiing on Mount Hood and became president of Cascade Ski Club in 1952.  He was instrumental in promoting Junior Ski Racing Programs for Cascade Ski Club during the 1950’s. 
            He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mrs. Dorothy M. Elmer; 3 sons: Robert G. Elmer, Dale M. Elmer and James W. Elmer; a brother, Richard Elmer; a sister, Leona Nelson, 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. 

            A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, January 13, 1997 at the Tabor Heights United Methodist Church on S.E. 61^st and Starks St. A reception following at 2:00 p.m. at Elmer’s Pancake and Steak House, 1411 N.E. 82^nd Ave., Portland. 
            In lieu of flowers, a contribution to the Tabor Heights United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.