Oscar A. Elsner

Oscar Andrew Elsner, 89, of North Vernon, IN joined his wife Evelyn in the eternal joy of heaven on November 26, 2018.  He was born on November 13, 1929 at his parent’s farm to Henry and Rose (Megel) Elsner.  He married Evelyn T. Hartman on February 23, 1957 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Oldenburg, IN.

Survivors include his children Steve of Friendswood, TX, Jim (Roxanne) of North Vernon, Rose (John Rosenbalm) of Brownsburg, Mark (Starlyn) of Martinsville and Andy (Amber) of North Vernon.  He is also survived by his grandchildren John, Zach, Clare, Daniel, Adam, Elliott, Elias, Lane, Drew, Brooks, great grandchildren plus dozens of nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, four brothers, five sisters, son Dan, two grandchildren Ryan and Luke.

Oscar grew up on his parents’ farm and lived there his entire life with the exception of two years while he served in the US Army.  He was called to join his father in farming before finishing high school.  That love continued in parallel with his construction business. After returning from duty in Germany in 1954, he began a 45 year career in home building and general construction.

He was a member and leader in many organization including St. Joseph Catholic Church; Knights of Columbus; Home Builders Association of Indiana; Jackson & Jennings County Home Builders Association; Jennings County School Board; First National Bank Board of Directors; Jennings County Economic Development Council; Jennings County Chamber of Commerce; Hayden Water Authority; Hayden Historical Museum and Spencer Township VFD.  He received multiple awards for community service and individual achievements.

He and his wife Evelyn were role models of Christian marriage and Catholic faith.  Wedded nearly 61 years, they cultivated love on earth while building an inheritance in heaven. 

A rosary will be said at 2:30 PM Friday November 30th, 2018, followed by visitation from 3-8 PM, both at Sawyer-Pickett Funeral Home in North Vernon, IN.  Visitation will also be available from 8:30-9:30 AM Saturday December 1st, 2018.  A funeral mass with graveside military honors will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Four Corners, IN at 10 AM Saturday.  A meal celebrating Oscar’s life will start at ~12:15 PM in the Community Building at the Jennings County Fairgrounds, 4950 North State Highway 3, North Vernon, IN  47265. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Rosary Society or the Hayden Historical Museum.

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