Dylan Van Elzen-Schleifer, 40

Dylan Thomas Van Elzen-Schleifer, Jan. 15, 1983 — Dec. 3, 2023

Dylan Van Elzen-Schleifer, our beautiful, amazing son left his earthly home on Dec. 3, 2023. He is now on his true path to ultimate enlightenment.

His parents, Lucy Van Elzen and William "Pops" Schleifer, are comforted to know that Dylan was in a very happy, good place in this life when he passed.

He truly believed in a spiritual afterlife embodied by, the Law of One, embracing the concept of love and light. With his love and understanding, he brought light into darkness. 

He was born in Whitefish, and lived most of his life in Kalispell, graduating from Flathead High School in 2001. He also lived in Missoula, San Diego, and Seattle, for short times but was very proud to be a Montana boy. He believed that when living in Montana there were, “no bad days," and by being positive, good things come to pass. "You have to believe.”  

He was a soothing soul who loved all creatures great and small especially his two Scottish Folds; his “sons,” Nike and Birdy.

"Dill boy," or "Dill Pickle," as he was lovingly known by his friends, was a fashionista. He loved all the finer things and always dressed his best matching outfit.

He was also a collector of fine art, clothing and especially shoes. A true shoe dog, with Nike Air Maxx prominent in his vast collection. 

He started skateboarding when he was 5 years old. At that age, he couldn’t stand on his board very well, so he would sit to make his turns going down the hill. In his 20s, he opened Premiere skateboard shop, in Missoula that featured, and fed his shoe and art collections along with skateboards. He especially loved helping young kids get started in the sport.

He is remembered by his friends and family for his gentle heart, happy smile, and infectious laugh. Luck followed him, but we were the lucky ones.

His parents are grateful and honored to have been given this most wonder-filled gift. While knowing Dylan was only on loan for a time, they will always share eternal love and pride in their beloved son.

A celebration of Dylan's incredible life will be held this summer on the beautiful Flathead Lake that he loved.

Dylan: Gone too soon; too loved, to ever be forgotten.

To send online condolences to the family please visit Dylan's tribute page at www.columbiamortuary.com.