John C. (Skip) Elder Iii

On August 28, 2013 at 11:40 am, John C. Elder III (known to friends and family as SKIP) died from heart failure.

He is survived by his mother Thelma Brazil, wife Chung H. Elder; daughter Tammy L Keeling and grandchildren Steven and Scott; son John C. Elder IV and grandchildren Brandi, Johnathon, Alesha, Noah, Caleb and Isaac; brother Thomas K. Elder and wife Cindy, nieces Stacy, Tina, Billy Jo, Veronica and Amanda; sister Sharon Seigrest and nephew Brandon; 13 great grandchildren and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and other family and friends, all cherished and loved by Skip.

Skip’s life was a celebration of music and creativity.  His professional career was  spent as a musician for more than 54 years, traveling all over the United States.  He had the honor of playing with Otis Reading, Jerry Lee Lewis, Charlie Daniels, Pat Benetar, Gloria Estafan, Babette Bardo, Judy Jones, Gail Dee, Joe Tass, Joe Pitlik, Eddie Rivers and many other talented artists.  He has been noted in Rock Legends and as well as other publications.  Lead singer and bassist in groups such as The Dutchmen, Ceba, The Bianco’s,  Lovin Kind and Cacophony.  A key member of many other musical groups such as Southern Stone, Night Traveler as well as others unnamed.  He was a singer, songwriter, guitarist, bassist as well as being involved in music production.  He was part of the music scene in Lancaster for more than five decades and enjoyed life without a clock, marching to his own beat.

If you knew John, you knew a man who was there for you.  Always ready to help someone in need if he could.  He was a family man and was a much cherished friend loved by so many.

As was his wish, no funeral service will be held.  A gathering of family and friends is anticipated for a later date.