As I was driving today on the I-805 over the I-8, and Fall 1973 Memory came to me:  Coach Runge arranged for our PHHS Cross-Country team to be part of the ribbon cutting at the opening of Highway 805.  They had us run on the brand new, as yet unopened freeway across the overpass from Friars Rd. to the other side of the I-8 (and back, I think), to "anoint" the highway before they cut the ribbon to open it up.  Mats, Paul, Thom, Rich, David, Glenn, Dave B., Bruce, Pap, all the guys.  I was a senior that year, 50 years ago!  Coach Runge and the Runge family have always remained in my heart for all these decades, still do.

Dear Ruth, 
I’m so sorry that Elmer couldn’t continue to live in your loving care.  We have been friends for so many years and have shared many happy experiences. It is a blessing that we remained friends for years, even while living apart in California. We shared the times of difficulties as well as joys. You and Elmer were our supporters.
We will continue to remain in touch , and always be there for each other.  All my love, Elaine.


A trip back to sunny warm Wisconsin.  Elmer a little more dressed for the weather than Ruth 

30th reunion of the 1971 graduating class of Patrick Henry High.  Back row, left to right: Bob Higgins, Scott Aveldson, Jack Colter, Ron Garber, Tom Anderson; bottom row left to right: Mike Botte, John Angus, Mark Krasner, Ted Tibbs.  

We were all members of the CIF Championship Gymnastics Team, winning the title in 1970 and 1971.  We owe Coach Runge a tremendous debt of gratitude for his skill and compassion as our coach, and also as our friend.  He took a team that started in 1969 with NO gymnastics equipment and shaped it into the only Patrick Henry team to capture not one, but two CIF titles during the School’s first three years of existence.  He brought out the best in us, athletically, and personally.  We’ll never forget our beloved Coach Runge!  
-John Angus

Through the Adult Class which Elmer taught for many years I began to run and through his encouragement actually ran a marathon but more importantly adopted running as a way to physical fitness.  Three years ago, at the age of 79 I was found to have 98% blockage of my "widow maker" but because of the aerobic fitness I developed corollary arteries and after double by-pass surgery lead an active life style including teaching Pickleball.  
Thank you Elmer - 

Yesterday, our brother, one of Coach's star runners passed away.  Our family believes they are together training for the Heavenly Olympics since they never made it to the 72 games. Coach will be in our hearts always.  - The Klinger Family

I am so sorry for your loss. I am glad of all the times you guys were able to come to milwaukee for a visit. I will miss seeing his smiling face. take care. 

Coach Runge was one of the most influential persons in my life. I will always honor his memory.  Rest in peace.

I am so truly sorry for your loss, but oh how I hope to have a life as well lived as Elmer’s!!!   To his adoring wife Ruth I especially send you tons of love and hugs.  You are such an amazing woman and such a loving wife.  May God give you only the fondest memories to cling to and a peace in your heart that He now rests in the presence of our Lord in Heaven.  

Elmer was such an amazing, loving and thoughtful person.  While my son was in high school he took the time to build 3 wooden boxes for my son to work out on - each in varying heights to jump on and even showed him a work out plan to boot!! Then, to top it all off, he even painted them in Poway Green and Gray with the Poway logo.  

OBITUARY

Elmer William Runge Jr.

February 21, 1933 – July 9, 2023

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