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Harry Ellner Obituary
Born in Stockholm, Sweden, on Feb. 24, 1917, he was the son of the late Per and Anna (Larrson) Ellner. The family immigrated to the U.S. when Harry was 7 and settled in Worcester. Harry graduated from Commerce High School and Becker Jr. College in Worcester.
For 19 years, he was a draftsman for Norton Co. An accomplished drummer, he formed Harry Ellner's Orchestra, a 12-piece group that played big band dance music throughout New England. Harry and his wife Clara owned and operated Holden Television Co. for 28 years. In 1984, they retired to their Cape home.
While living in Holden, he was a member of Aletheia Grotto (Masons), The Holden Exchange Club, Holden Country Club, and Immanuel Lutheran Church.
An avid boater, he was "Captain" of the Lee Ann, instructor and commander of Flotilla 1301, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Always proud of being Svensk, he was past chairman of Nordic Lodge, VASA, Worcester.
Harry is survived by his wife, Clara (Anderson); two daughters, Dorothy Kean (Thomas) and Judith Sands (Neil); three grandchildren, Kierstin Kean, Erik Sands, and Bethany Sands; a great-granddaughter, Gabrielle Coffin; a brother, Pehr Uno Ellner; a niece and nephew; and relatives in Sweden.
A memorial service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 310 Route 137, East Harwich, MA 02645.
Donations in his memory may be made to St. Peter's Lutheran Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Barbara Cormier
September 20, 2008
Harry was a wonderful friend to our family. We enjoyed lobstering with him, and other boating adventures; he spoke Swedish with our grandmother -- and even sang the Swedish National Anthem which she enjoyed. He will be missed. Andy, Kym, Sophia, Christopher, Barbara and Janice.
Gail Hartery
September 19, 2008
So sorry to hear of Harry's passing. I remember going to visit you all in Holden when I was a little girl. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lynn Fournier
September 19, 2008
Although we lost touch over the years, I am so sorry for your loss. Harry lived a good life and had many friends in the Worcester area. God Bless.
Lynn (Anderson) Fournier
Lynn Turcotte
September 16, 2008
I'm sorry to hear of Harry's passing. David and I will never forget the rendezvous on the Cape, and the times we spent with members of 1301.
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Curt Wickstrom
September 16, 2008
Harry was a good friend to my Dad and by extention to the whole family.It is sad to read of his passing.
Curt Wickstrom
Susan (Butcher) St Denis
September 16, 2008
I have many nice memories of the years you were my next door neighbors. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Jean McNulty
September 16, 2008
Dorothy and Tom,
Sorry to hear of your loss.
Sincerely,
Jane Fogg
September 16, 2008
My thoughts are with you during this sad time. May your fond memories help you during these difficult days. Everyone in Holden remembers going to buy our entertainment items at your store. No Best Buy in those days! It was good ole hometown service.
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