Elsner Saddened by Death of Chairman Emeritus Frank Elsner, Jr.
Elsner Engineering Works, Inc. is saddened to announce the
passing of our Chairman Emeritus, Frank Elsner, Jr., P.E., on August 30, 2007. Frank
died after a brief illness at the age of 80 with his family by his side. Frank was
born in 1927 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of first generation German immigrants to
the USA. He moved with his parents to Hanover in 1932. Frank is survived by his loving
wife of 56 years, Eleanor Jane Scholl Elsner and four children.
Ensign Elsner served in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific theatre in World War II.
Upon his discharge, he worked in Canton, Ohio and Meadville, Pennsylvania before
returning to work with his father in 1954 in Elsner Engineering Works, Inc. Upon his
father's untimely death in 1967, Frank assumed the second generation role of President
and Treasurer of this family firm, a title he retained until his retirement in 1993. His
career spanned 38 years with the family business. Frank believed: "People are Important" and always insured satisfaction for his employees, customers, suppliers and
industry associates. He made many friendships and treasured those well into his
retirement.
Upon his retirement, Frank assumed the role of Chairman of the Board of
Directors from his mother and became Chairman Emeritus in 2000 upon his brother
Bertram's retirement. Frank was a registered Professional Engineer and held several
patents.
In addition to his work commitments, Frank was active both civically and socially
in the Hanover area and served on many local boards, including the Board of Directors of
Adams County National Bank, a publicly traded banking institution, for 33 years.
Frank enjoyed model building, photography and travel. He and his wife visited 6
continents and over 60 countries during business and pleasure travels. Frank and his wife
were also avid sailors and boaters for many years. Upon his retirement, Frank spent over
two years building a scale working model replica of the LST on which he served during
the war. This model was awarded the Best Steel Navy Ship by the U.S. Naval Academy
Ship Model Society in 2000.
Memorial contributions can be made in Frank's memory to Visiting Nurse
Association of Hanover and Spring Grove, VNA Community Health Services or VNA
Hospice, all located at 440 North Madison Street, Hanover, PA 17331, USA or to the
charity of your choice.
