Lonas “Lonnie” Ray Van Elsberg was born in Marshfield (now Coos Bay) April 19, 1931, to Marcelle and Ellen (Emerson) Van Elsberg.  He passed away Nov. 11, 2017, Veteran's Day, in North Bend.

After attending Marshfield High School, Lonnie was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany during the Korean War.  Upon returning home from the U.S. Army, Lonnie returned to Coos Bay where he began working for Menasha Corp. for a time before moving on to become County Road-master and County Surveyor.  He also served as County Commissioner for Coos County until his retirement in 1975, when he began a new career in real estate.  With his wife Sheri, he started Van Elsberg Real Estate, where they worked together for over 35 years before retiring in 2013.

Lonnie was an active member of the community.  He was a member of the Coos Bay Volunteer Fire Department, Coos Bay Lion's Club, and Commander of the VFW Post 4441.  He was also a member of the National Association of Realtors and Forest Hills Country Club.  He loved golfing and had a passion for gardening.  He took great pride in his flower garden and his yard was beautifully landscaped, always full of delightful flowers.

Lonnie was a loving husband, father and grandfather.  He will truly be missed.

Lonnie is survived by his wife, Sheri; two sons, Larry Van Elsberg and wife, Lily, and Brian Van Elsberg; two daughters; Kim Espy and husband, John, and Jill Robertson and husband, Bruce; stepson John Good and wife, Bobbett; brother, George Van Elsberg and wife, Sharon; two sisters; Yvonne Brock and, husband Louie, and Luella Hedges and husband, Bill; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Carlos and Gayland Van Elsberg.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Friends of Coos County Animals (FOCCAS), PO Box 911, Coos Bay, Ore. 97420, or to the Coos County Animal Shelter, 92960 South Port Road, Coos Bay, Ore. 97420.

At his request, no public service will be held.  A private graveside service will be held at IOOF Cemetery in Bandon.

Arrangements are under the care of Coos Bay Chapel. 541-267-3131.

Friends and family are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.coosbayareafunerals.com

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