Charles "Bill" Elk, Jr.

Charles "Bill" Elk, Jr., of Somerset died peacefully at his home on Friday, January 26, 2024 at the age of 84 with his wife, daughter, and beloved dog, Sheba, by his side. He was born August 15, 1939, in Columbus, Ohio.

Bill proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard, “When the men were made of steel and the ships were made of wood”. He began his career when he was hired by O.S.U. Dental Clinic, after fixing a broken machine, while he was a patient there. He eventually opened his own repair business located at his home, then managed Saslow Dental of Columbus, Ohio. In 1984 he established Target Dental Equipment and Service, Inc., located in Pickerington. He retired with his wife Andi in Somerset. There he led a fulfilling and happy life until his final breath.

Bill also shot the Whitehall fireworks during the 70’s including the 1976 Bicentennial which was rated 8th in the country in USA Today. Bill never knew a stranger and was always willing to help those in need. His love for animals was contagious and admirable as he saved many animals over the years. He was always on the ready with jokes as he lived to make people laugh.

Bill is survived by his wife of 45 years, Andi (Ulyon); their daughter, Jacqueline Elk; and Sheba, their loyal and nurturing dog. He is also survived by his charismatic and lifelong friend and stepsister, Carole Donnely.

He was preceded in death by Esther Riesman Maupin and Charles Elk Sr., of Columbus.

The family (including Sheba) would like to thank Genesis Hospice of Zanesville, especially Jeremy, Abby, Kesha, and Becky, for their caring and compassionate care since October. The family would also like to thank Denise R. of Home Instead for her care, friendship and compassion to the family during Bill’s final days. Also, special thanks to Catherine and Verna for their helping hands and support.

Visitation will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, January 29, at the Thornville Chapel of Hoskinson Funeral & Cremation Service, 56 South Main Street in Thornville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 30, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 228 South Columbus Street in Somerset with Father André-Joseph LaCasse officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery, St. Rt. 757 in Glenford.

Celebration, memories and lunch will follow at the American Legion Post #58, 107 East Gay Street in Somerset.

memorial contributions may be made to the Fairfield County, Ohio Humane Society.

Hoskinson Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to care for Bill and his family.