Robert “Bobby” Elson was born on August 23, 1940, in Indianapolis to the late Robert and Marvel (Lance) Elson the oldest of nine children.
Bobby attended Holy Cross and Cathedral grade schools. He was a 1958 graduate of Cathedral High School where he met lifelong friends who continue to meet weekly. He retired after 37 years of service with the Indianapolis Fire Department. He was a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and Knights of Columbus. Bobby spent much of his free time over the years with his family at the Elson Ponderosa Campground on Lake Shafer.
Bobby is also preceded in death by his siblings Mary Kay Shipley Meils and Richard Elson.
Bobby is survived by his wife, Peggy (Glenn) Elson; children, Christine Barkley, Debbie, Brian (Jessie), Colleen (Glenn) Bill, Brad (Victoria), David (Kathy), Emily and Mary Claire Elson; 12 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; former wife, Jane Merz; siblings Michael (Jane), Timothy (Nancy), Jane Usab, Peggy (Vic) Clerget, Cynthia (John) Knobbe, and Kevin Elson; and several nieces and nephews.