Elskus immigrated to Chicago, Illinois in 1949 and worked as an apprentice in a stained glass studio. After settling in a predominantly Lithuanian neighborhood, Elskus travelled to Paris to study at the École des Beaux-Arts. Elskus eventually returning to the United States and married Ann (née Crewdson). They settled in New York City, where Elskus continued to create stained glass pieces. Elskus was commissioned to created works for churches in the United States and Europe, including several in Maine.