Age 37, of Burton, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025. Funeral Service will be held on Monday March 10, 2025 at 2:00 pm, at Detroit Cremation Society, 8253 S. Saginaw St. in Grand Blanc. Pastor Sarah LaRose-Nettell will officiate. Sean’s family will be present to receive friends from 12:00 pm until the time of the service at 2:00 pm. In accordance with his wishes, cremation will take place. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Sean’s tribute wall at detroitcremationsociety.com.

Sean Michael Elder was born on January 6, 1988, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Diane (Ferguson) Elder and Robert Wheeler and his wife, Linda Wheeler. A devoted father, loving fiancé, loyal friend, and a beloved son, Sean’s life was defined by his unwavering love for his family, his passion for learning, and his ability to bring joy to those around him.

Sean was a devoted father to his three children, Ava Elder (10), Jace Elder (6), and stepson Zachary Hanson II (17). They were his world, and he never missed a chance to play with them, take pictures, or remind them how much they were loved. Even when apart, he called daily to check in and make them smile. He also shared a deep and enduring love with his fiancée, Victoria Aitkens. To Sean, their relationship was something truly special, a love he often compared to A Walk to Remember, a rare and unbreakable bond filled with laughter, unwavering support, and a connection that could withstand anything.

Sean had a deep and unconditional love for his parents, Diane, Robert, and Linda. They were his greatest supporters and role models, and he never missed an opportunity to express his gratitude for their love and sacrifices.

Sean dedicated himself to serving his community as a firefighter, beginning his career in 2012. He took a leave in 2015 and ultimately resigned in 2019, but his heart never left the fire department. He cherished the brotherhood and friendships he formed at Burton Station 1, always holding onto the hope that he would return after his kidney transplant.

Music was one of Sean’s greatest passions. It wasn’t just something he listened to, it was something he felt deep in his soul. Every song held meaning, every lyric told a story. His love for bands like Soundgarden, Audioslave, Evanescence, Mudvayne, and artists like Chris Cornell, DMX, Eminem, and Michael Jackson reflected his connection to music on an emotional level. Whether it was the raw power of rock, the deep storytelling of hip-hop, or the timeless energy of pop, music was a constant in his life. He was always jamming, whether at home or in the car, letting the melodies move him, giving every day its own soundtrack.
Sean enjoyed watching football, basketball, and hockey, but his favorite sport to play was golf. He found joy and relaxation on the golf course, always appreciating a good game with friends.

Sean was also a lifelong dog lover, but no bond was stronger than the one he had with his favorite dog, Des. Des wasn’t just a pet, he was Sean’s shadow, his comfort, and his most loyal companion. Their connection was something rare and unbreakable, and losing Des was one of the hardest things Sean ever faced. Yet, his love for dogs never wavered. From his first dog, Rudy, whom he shared with his mother, to his current beloved companions, Lily and Tyson, Sean’s heart was always full when he had a dog by his side.

Sean had a natural ability to make people laugh. His quick wit and playful spirit could brighten any room, and his humor was his way of bringing happiness to those around him. His warmth, kindness, and protective nature made him someone everyone gravitated toward. Among his closest friends were Joseph Klamert and his wife Nichole, along with their daughters Aubri and Hazel, Ian Hardgraves, Barry Gamel II, Aaron Pettey and his daughter Rylee, Kris Stillwagon, Cody Revolt, and Jeremy Sharrer, brothers in friendship who stood by him through every challenge and triumph.

Left to cherish his memory are his fiancée, Victoria Aitkens; his children, Ava Elder, Jace Elder, and Zachary Hanson II; his beloved parents, Diane (Ferguson) Elder, Robert Wheeler, and Linda Wheeler; his many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins; his many close friends, extended family members, and all those whose lives he touched.

Sean was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mae Louise and Billy Ray Ferguson, Clarence and Vernabell Wheeler, and Rita Perry, along with any other loved ones who passed before him.

A special thank you to Harlee and Shawn Callahan, Ava’s Papa Bob and Nana Jolene Brenner, Dr. Nikolakeas, Rhonda Morse and staff, the Grand Blanc Police Department, the Genesys Hospital ER staff, and Gift of Life, for their dedication, care, and support.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sean’s family, as the donations will be given to Sean’s children.