Paul J. Elsner

Paul J. Elsner, 91 of Greensburg passed away Tuesday, December 27, 2011, at Heritage House Nursing Home. Paul was born on August 25, 1920 in Jennings County son of Henry and Rose Elsner. On April 11, 1944, Paul married his high school sweetheart Betty Wyman. Paul was a farmer all of his life until he retired in 1986. Paul also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, wood working, and antique tractor restoration. He was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church where he served as an usher for many years. He is survived by his wife Betty, Daughters: Katherine Elsner of Springfield, IL; Rosie (Carl) Stier, Frances Elsner and Suzanne (Nick) Fasbinder all of Greensburg. Sons: Joe Elsner of Greenfield; John (Vonda) Elsner and Jeffery (Sandy) Elsner son-in-law Whitie Wesseler all of Greensburg; sister Helen (Delbert) Hausperger; brother Oscar (Evelyn) Elsner both of North Vernon; 22 Grandchildren and 29 Great Grandchildren. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Rita L. Wesseler, 3 Grandchildren, 4 sisters and 3 brothers. After the death of their daughter Rita, Paul and Betty raised the five children of Rita and Whitie Wesseler, Eric, Scott, Mark Wesseler, Jeni Niese and Jill Wilmer. There will be a visitation for family and friends on Thursday, December 29 from 3PM – 7PM at the Gilliland – Howe Funeral Home with a rosary service at 2:30PM. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 30 at 10AM at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greensburg with Fr. John Meyer officiating. Burial following at the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Mary’s Building Fund or the Alzheimer’s Association.