Clayton Dale Elston

Clayton Dale Elston, 68, of Wentzville, MO, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Clayton was born on June 23, 1954 in St. Louis, MO. He was the son of Kenneth “Bud” Elston and Marjorie K. Trower Elston.

Clayton was united in marriage to Diane Baldridge on August 3, 1974. They were blessed with two children. One son, Nathan Elston, and one daughter, Natalie Elston.

Clayton graduated from Buchanan High School in 1972, and was looking forward to attending his 50th class reunion on August 13, 2022.

For all who knew him, he was known for his gentle, loving spirit and sense of humor.

Clayton started working at the IGA in Troy when he was 15 years old. He started out sorting chickens in the meat department, and because of his years of work ethic, he was eventually promoted to journeyman butcher. He continued to apply himself even further, working his way up to store ownership. His grocery adventure spanned over 35 years, working side by side with his loving wife, Diane.

Clayton loved music and was a talented saxophone player. He was known to many as the Sax Man. He enjoyed creating and recording music with is older brother, Kenneth, AKA “Tutti”.

Everyone who knew Clayton knew about his love of classic cars. His father, Bud Elston, was also an avid car collector. Clayton loved to create model cars for his friends and family and present them as gifts on special occasions.

His granddaughter, Mariah, was the light of his life. He was so happy to be a Papa! Recently, he got to take her to her very first Cardinals home game at Busch Stadium. Cardinal baseball was another favorite pass time for Clayton, so Pujols hitting a homerun was extra special to them that day!

Clayton is survived by his wife, of almost 48 years, Diane Elston; brother, Kenneth L. Elston, of Troy, MO; Son, Nathan Elston, of Morris, OK; daughter, Natalie Elston, of Wentzville, MO; and granddaughter, Mariah Elston, of Morris, OK; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth P. Elston and Marjorie K. Trower Elston, and will be laid to rest near them in Troy Cemetery.

Clayton will be sadly missed by all who love him. Our comfort is in knowing that we will see him again, as he is safe in the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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