"Eli was the life of the party," as my cousin Michael Boutrous stated recently about his Uncle Eli with fondness. No doubts about it, I recall Eli being a sweet fun guy of the family. Always welcoming and a great host. Elias 'Eli' Assad Nemer married my Uncle Floyd Nick Boutrous's younger sister, Florence 'Flossy' Marion Boutrous. My father, Ernest Anders Erickson went to Bismarck High School with Flossy. Funny to think, years later, Flossy's older brother Floyd, would marry my dad's kid sister, Dian Marcella Erickson.

Like many of the elders of the Attiyeh family Eli was born in Ain Arab, Lebanon on October 3rd, 1923. His parents were Assad and Latife (Baba) Nemer. He was raised and educated in Lebanon and graduated from high school there. As a young man, he came to America, where he met Florence and they were married on November 9th, 1952.

Eli worked in Bismarck as a self-employed painter and decorator for many years. Elias enjoyed hunting, fishing and golf. He was a lifelong member of St. George's Episcopal Church and the Elks Club. He loved being with his grandchildren, family and friends. Elias was an excellent cook and enjoyed serving meals at dinner parties. I recall being at a few. His happiest times were when his home was filled with people.

Eli's classic blue van below in full work mode.