Brother Michael David Elvestrom

Brother Michael David Elvestrom , who identifies as a Franciscan Friar in the Catholic Church and was a fixture of Natchitoches' art and culture scene for decades, passed away on August 8, 2024. He was born on June 25, 1944 to Hilda and Bernard Elvestrom and his formative years were spent on a farm with animals and gardens in Washington State. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Nancy Elvestrom, and a brother, Lynn Elvestrom. He is survived by a sister, Joann Elvestrom Gregory and numerous nieces and nephews.

Brother Michael David won honors with 4-H as a youngster and was the state representative to Chicago in 1963. Later, he entered a cloistered New York monastery for nine months but left to attend graduate school at the University of Iowa, where he earned a Master of Fine Arts in printmaking. He taught art, music and theatre for 40 years at NSU and LSMSA and was awarded several fellowships to teach outside the United States. His work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and is included in the collections of many individuals in Natchitoches and elsewhere.

Brother Michael David has been active in the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society and other local organizations, often seen at Trinity Episcopal Church, the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and strolling around the Historic District. Over the years he lent his design talents to many large society and holiday events, balls and historic tours. He was king of the Krewe of Dionysos Mardi Gras festivities in 2004 and was the subject of a 2015 documentary film, “Sacred as Folk.”

In his musical life, Brother Michael David studied and performed solo and in ensembles on flute, organ, harp and as a vocalist, once giving a recital in five languages.  He dearly loved all animals but especially dogs.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Rev. Irion St. Romaine serving as celebrant. His cremated remains will be interred at Catholic Cemetery following the Mass. A reception for friends, after the burial, will be held at The Pioneer Pub, located at 812 Washington Street, to reflect on his life and share stories.