I extend my sincere sympathies to Elias's family and friends. Elias was a true original and the world feels diminished without him. I so much enjoyed getting to know him through our short fiction group and through walks at Gallup Park. He loved to talk about the big questions of life and existence and it was inspiring to discuss these things with him. He challenged me (in a good way) to be more precise and thoughtful in my responses and now I try to continue that practice. I will always remember him on his favorite bench at Gallup Park, an idyllic spot where we saw kingfishers and a swan nesting. Elias-- Rest in peace after a life well and truly lived.

Elias wrote this vey poignant message to Theresa and I just two days after he received his diagnosis on June 2, 2021.

"This almost seems like a "honeymoon" period. The "honeymoon" is spiritual in that I feel in a state of deep reflection, which is good (something I "like"), but I'm aware that this is not stable or a safe harbor because (i) I still feel completely like myself and mentally clear and that's not going to last--because of treatment itself as well as progression of the disease, and (ii) this is all very new and intense and nothing stays "new and intense" for long. I'm sure it will evolve in unexpected ways. One of the positives, for right now, is I feel there is no reason to express anything but the kindest part of myself, so I was the soul of good cheer and kindness with people at the hospital."

Elias was the first to deliver a valedictory talk reflecting his teaching legacy at UM-Dearborn. It was recorded to serve as an oral history. Learn more here.

https://umdearborn.edu/news/c….

Our last trip together, beautiful.

Elias's love of nature