Elmer G.W. Hern, 87, of Keokuk, IA died December 17, 2012 at the Lexington Square in Keokuk, IA. He was born on September 21, 1925 in Fults, IL the son of Henry J. and Louisa Klamp Hern. Elmer was an Army veteran and proudly served his country during WW II. Elmer was the owner of rental apartments that he remodeled in Keokuk and also when he resided in California. He is survived by four sisters, Alma Juelff of Waterloo, IL, Seta Easton of Cuba, MO, Priscilla Bankcroft of St. Louis, MO and Alice Newland of Waterloo, IL, One brother, Elliott Hern of Columbia, IL, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Henry Hern in infancy and Wilbert and Calvin Hern, one sister in infancy Nelda Hern, several nieces and nephews. Graveside services with military rites were held at 2 P.M. Friday,December 28, 2012 at the Keokuk National Cemetery. There will be no visitation.