M. Elmer Wetzel, retired Amherst Police employee

Wetzel

M. Elmer Wetzel, 92, of Williamsville, died on Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2007.

He worked at Ralston Purina from 1935 to 1970 and in maintenance for the Amherst Police Department from 1970 to 1980.

With his brothers and father, he used to dig graves by hand at St. Michael's Cemetery in Williamsville.

He was the longest known continuous parishioner of SS. Peter and Paul Church. He was a member of the Holy Name Society, the First Friday Club and the senior citizens group that met at the church.

He maintained a garden with his brother and did yard work for neighbors who were unable to do it themselves into his 80s.

Mr. Wetzel was predeceased by his wife, Anna. He is survived by two sons, Dr. James and Thomas; four daughters, Mary Ellen Olesko, Joan, Sister Peggy, and Diane DiDomenico; two brothers, Harold and Willard; one sister, Virginia; 12 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Services were held on Monday, Nov. 19 at SS. Peter and Paul Church. Arrangements were made by Beach-Tuyn Funeral Home.