Franklin Delano Elles, age 89, died on March 2, 2024. He was born on February 25, 1935 to the late Frank and Stefanie Cermak in Littlefield, Texas, and was raised and adopted by the late Joe and Rosie Hanulik Elles in La Salle, Texas. Franklin was very proud of his Czechoslovakian heritage. He learned to speak English in the first grade.
Franklin attended Industrial High School and graduated in 1954. He proudly served with the 4th Armored Division in Germany from 1957-1959. He attended Army reunions in Iowa, Missouri, and Tennessee. He was a heavy equipment operator and farmer. After retirement, he continued farming and each year he raised a big garden, sharing the bounty with family, friends and neighbors. He was a member of the National Farmers Organization, Polka and Waltz Dance Club, and SPJST Fraternal Lodge 32. He served as the president of each of these organizations.
Franklin married Lois Jean Kalich on November 17, 1956. They made their home and raised their family in Victoria. He is survived by his wife of 67 years and children: Darla Buccigrossi and husband Mark of La Vernia, Allison Elles of Victoria, Daryl Elles and wife, Aimee of Houston. Grandchildren: Kayla Elles, Ryan Elles, Simona Buccigrossi, and Sara Buccigrossi.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Adolph, Rudy, Joe and Harry Elles; sisters: Tillie Jurcak, Adina Strmiska, Oline Horn, and Narcis Arledge. Half-brothers: Henry and Walter Adamek; half-sisters: Georgia Doggett, Lillie Brumbelow, and Evelyn Wilcox.
A visitation will be held March 18, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. with a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at First English Lutheran Church, 516 N Main St, Victoria, TX 77901. Inurnment at Memorial Park Cemetery with full military honors under the auspices of the Victoria Veterans Council.
The family wishes to offer their deepest gratitude to those who cared for Franklin from Hospice of South Texas and encourages memorials to be sent in memory of Franklin to 605 Locust Ave, Victoria, Tx 77901.
