Elmer B. Van Orsdal, 87, died June 22 at his home. Mr. Van Orsdal was born in Chattanooga, TN, the son of Jessie Jenkins VanOrsdal. Mr. Van Orsdal was a veteran of the United States Navy, where he served as a radioman. One of his assignments was on a minesweeper - a ship to remove mines left at sea after WWII. It was on a deployment to Japan he met Kazuko (Kay) who became his dearly loved wife. Mrs. Van Orsdal died in 2014. When he retired, they moved full time to Fannin County where his mother lived. He worked in the Tax Assessors Office until he retired again. He was the brother of Ira A. VanOrsdal and Clara Lynn Tennyson (both deceased). He is survived by his sister-in law, Aubrey Van Orsdal, eight nieces and nephews, many grand and great grand nieces and nephews and cousins. At his request there will be no funeral or memorial. His ashes will be spread by his family in a private ceremony. Mr. Van Orsdal was well known and beloved in the community. He wished to be remembered as he was - a friend, a story teller and generous person. In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to Friends of the Library, PO Box 1791, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. .