Ted Jon Elson-Canfield

Ted (don't call him Theodore) Jon Elson-Canfield 1946-2025

Ted was born in Iowa Falls on January 7, 1946, to Kenneth M. and Lucille B. Canfield. He passed away peacefully on March 5th following a long illness.

If you didn't know Ted, he would introduce himself two different ways: first, as “The biggest Coke pusher in Iowa,” or second, as “A Ding-a-ling.” Those introductions would become explanations of those shocking statements. Back in the 80s and part of the 90's Ted worked for Coca-Cola as a delivery driver and salesman, He was a giant among men, standing six foot seven and ¾ inches tall, thus making him the “biggest.” As a proud member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids, he was a member of one of the very first bell choirs in the state of Iowa. Thus the “Ding-a-ling.” He was proud of having played handbells for 66 years.

He was a master mechanic, and he loved cars and driving. He knew every back road in the state of Iowa, and most of the roads in Missouri and Arkansas. Aside from being a human G.P.S, he was a fountain of knowledge. He knew the history of Cedar Rapids and its residents better than most historians. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge with anyone who would listen. After living in Cedar Rapids for most of his life, in recent years, he and his wife Rachel moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas. They enjoyed camping (specifically at K.O.A. campgrounds), and their neighbors, and were active members in First United Methodist Church, and Ted really, really loved mowing… really.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Carol Drahozal, Don Canfield, and Tim Canfield, his grandson Jim Pospisil, and his wife Rachel Elson-Canfield. He is survived by his children, Christi, Cheri, Ted (T.J), Chad, Todd, Nathan, and Benjamin, and sister, Cathy Canfield-Jepson, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be at St Paul’s United Methodist Church on Saturday March 15th, 9-11 AM. Service 11AM to Noon. There will be a meal following the service. (Yes, there will be funeral potatoes.)

Memorials may be directed to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church Handbell Choir.