Elmer was born in Sturgis, Michigan on January 24, 1918 the son of Clarence W. and Helen (Sherer) Black, Sr. In 1924 the family moved to Moorepark to reside on the Joseph Wilbur farm, later known as the Plantation. Elmer attended the one room school in Moorepark and then graduated from Three Rivers High School with the class of 1935. He served honorably in the U.S. Army during World War II. On September 12, 1943 he was united in marriage to Joyce Fisher at Center Park United Methodist parsonage. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage upon her passing in 1997. They were long time members of Center Park Church, where Elmer was a certified lay speaker for over 30 years. Elmer was employed for Fairbanks Morse Co, Three Rivers Brass and Aluminum Foundry, and also with the Johnson Corporation where he retired in 1982. He was an active member and ambassador of the Three Rivers Area Chamber of Commerce. Over the years he has received a number of awards. In 2005 Elmer was named Ambassador of the Year. He was also active in the Three Rivers Lions Club where in 1996 he was their Lions Club Citizen of the Year. He also received awards for his community service from state representative, Glenn Oxender, state senators, Harry Gast and Dale Shugars, U.S. representative, Fred Upton U.S. Senator, Carl Levin, and Governor John Engler as well as an award from the Michigan Townships Association. In 1995 Elmer was honored by Park Township for over 50 years of service. He served as constable, treasurer, trustee, and Board of Review member. He also for over 20 years served as the township supervisor and assessor. He attended Glen Oaks Community College graduating as a certified assessor. Elmer also served as chairman of the Lockport, Fabius, and Park Township's fire board. Elmer loved all sports, played baseball and softball and also was an avid golfer. He also loved to watch auto racing and bowled in the Classic league many years ago. Elmer enjoyed fishing, making many trips to Canada, and deer hunting on the family farm.