Steven Barry Elman

It is with an absolutely broken heart that we share that our father/husband/grandfather, Steven Barry Elman, has finished this part of his journey. He passed at home, surrounded by family and friends. Steve leaves his wife, Bonnie of Berlin, MA, his daughters, Linnea Bates of Hudson, MA and Trina Zompetti of Marl- boro, MA, 5 grandchildren - Brittny Chiasson, Ian Vorce, Johnny Zompetti, Nelson Zompetti, and Justice Bates, as well as one great grandson, Blake Vorce-Cyr.

Dad was an amazing, complex, outspoken, educated, champion of the underdog. Hang on for a crazy ride, because this was Steve; he joined the Marines when he was underage, serving 2 tours in Vietnam. He paid a price and turned to drugs and alcohol upon his return. He served 5 years in Federal prison stemming from his drug use. He later met Mom, and struggled with his addictions, but still managed to go to college (UMass Lowell and Berkeley College of Music) and graduate with a Masters degree.

He was a fighter, through and through, and managed to sustain 34 years of sobriety, receiving his 34 year AA coin this past summer. RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE!!! He was a spectacular music teacher for over 30 years, inspiring a love of music in countless kids, many of whom went on to a career in music. There wasn’t a student in his class that didn’t love and respect him. He loved history and politics and could educate you on either to the point where you question why you didn’t see it his way in the first place. He loved animals, particularly dogs.

He always had a thirst for knowledge and never stopped learning, even managing to start law school at 76 years old. He made it to the third year, at which point his health issues began taking their toll. He started taking many of his law courses on line because he was determined to pass the bar and do pro bono work for Veterans and animal rights. He was an avid football fan; he lived for the New England Patriots, and he would be furious to know he left this world during football season. He drove us crazy. He made us laugh. He valued family above all else, and loved with his whole heart. We will miss him like crazy and love him for always.

Burial will be private. There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at 1pm at the First United Methodist Church on Felton Street, Hudson, MA. All are wel- come to come, laugh, share a story, remember the force that was Steve. In lieu of flowers, donations to Yan- kee Golden Retriever Rescue (www.ygrr.org/donate) in Steves’ name are most appreciated.