John H. Elder

Planning and Estate

John H. Elder brings a special degree of experience to the clients of Meyer Capel. John works with his clients to deal with the tax issues of estate planning, but has always realized that this is only one component of the planning process. It is very important that an attorney work with the family members to learn about the needs and personalities of the various individuals and to develop a plan that meets the family goals and objectives. Some of the greatest qualities of an estate planning attorney are compassion, trust, and communication skills and it is only with these qualities that the proper estate plan can be developed. John enjoys working with all of his clients and realizes that the best estate plan that can be developed for each individual is the one most important to them.

At the time of a person’s death, the estate attorney not only needs to provide legal services, but also needs to provide comfort and stability for the family members. The period of an estate proceeding is one of the most difficult times any family can face and they need to have a lawyer that can give them guidance in a caring, yet professional manner.


He enjoys attending athletic and cultural events at the University of Illinois and he and his wife, Lois, spend a lot of time at the family home in Michigan. Being outdoors, whether working in the yard or participating in activities, is very enjoyable for him. John is also an avid runner and runs in several half marathons each year.

He and his wife, Lois, are the parents of four children, Barbie, Mike, Susan and Patrick. They also have eleven grandchildren ranging from ages 25 to 9 months. Having a large family helps John understand the subtle complications of estate planning and the need to develop a plan where all of the family members, with their different financial and social backgrounds, feel comfortable with the arrangement.

University of Illinois College of Law

J.D.

1972

Purdue University - Purdue University

B.S.I.M

1969

Illinois

Since 1972