Elton Marvin Renken
Elton Marvin Renken, 93, passed away on May 4, 2025, in Ephrata, Wash. He was born July 12, 1931, at his family’s farmhouse near Palmer, Neb.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ellen; his daughter, Tracie Zimmerman; his son, Keith; his parents, Willamena and Gerhardt Renken; and four of his five siblings: Vic, Loraine, Jeanie, and Ron.
Elton is survived by his son, Randy (Martha); his grandchildren: Crystal Zimmerman, Adam Renken (Cierra), Trevor Renken, Misty Foster (Nathan), Skylar Renken (Kerry), and Starla Van Lith; 10 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; his sister, Bee Porter; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Elton grew up on the family farm in Worms, Neb., and attended school until he was old enough to work full time on the farm. In 1950, he joined the U.S. Air Force, serving at Westover Air Base in Chicopee Falls, Mass., until 1953.
After his military service, he settled in Ephrata, Wash., where he became a residential “sleeper” fireman for the Ephrata Fire Department. It was there he met his wife, Ellen Elshire, and together they raised their three children, Tracie, Randy and Keith. Elton and Ellen endured the heartbreaking loss of their children, Tracie and Keith, far too soon. The passing of Ellen in 2020 was another devastating blow, but Elton's faith carried him through, knowing he would see them all again. During this time, the companionship of his beloved little dog, Mister, brought him great comfort.
Elton spent most of his career with Pacific Northwest Bell, he worked as a lineman and was responsible for hanging phone lines in most of Eastern Washington, he continued with the phone company as a service repairman until his retirement.
A charter member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Ephrata, Elton was deeply involved in church activities. He served as a youth leader for Luther League, was an elder for many years, and often cooked for the church’s Easter breakfast. He was also a member of the church choir, known for his beautiful tenor voice, especially when he harmonized with his brother, Ron.
Elton was also a dedicated volunteer firefighter for the Ephrata Fire Department, serving for 33 years. He held various roles, including firefighter, captain, and assistant chief. Even after his retirement, he stayed close to the department, attending many social events. He was a long-time member of the American Legion where he enjoyed spending time with friends.
A lover of the outdoors, Elton spent many joyful years at his cabin on Lake Bonaparte, where he and Ellen made lasting friendships. Whether camping and fishing at Liar’s Cove in Conconully or hunting with friends at the cabin on Tunk Mountain, Elton always found ways to enjoy life. His accordion music brought joy to every gathering and was often played around campfires and at family get-togethers for all to enjoy.
Elton’s kindness, humor, and adventurous spirit left a lasting impact wherever he lived, including Ephrata, Oroville and Odessa. He made lifelong friends in each community always greeting friends and even strangers with his signature greeting, “Well, hi there!” His positive attitude and gentle nature were evident to all who knew him.
A service will be held May 21, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 471 Nat Washington Way, Ephrata, Wash., with a luncheon to follow at the American Legion, 276 Eight Ave. NW, Ephrata.
Interment with honors will take place May 22, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Odessa Cemetery in Odessa, Wash. All friends and family are invited to attend both services.
Memorials may be made to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Ephrata Fire Department, and American Legion Post 28 in Ephrata.
