Monday, October 27, 2025
I was among the many treated to Elsie's frequent and always appreciated letters over many years. Although I was living distant from Glastonbury, it was great that she would keep me and wife Pam informed of the happenings with her and John and the entire Bauer clan. An added bonus: she was so punctual with her cards and letters that I never completely forgot either my birthday or wedding anniversary!
We "DeGemmises across the street" as one Buttonball clan were for so many years the beneficiaries of Elsie's kindness/generosity/good counsel and her ever-present smile…
We always enjoyed hearing the stories of Elsie's early days in NYC, of her seven decades (maybe eight!) as a stalwart citizen of Glastonbury, and of her many travels to lands both foreign and domestic. Elsie's knowledge of the world, the country and of her beloved Glastonbury was all very deep, indeed.
I have kept some of Elsie's letters aside, for periodic viewing. They remind me of what it is like to have a true friend in this world. And while many tales in Brokaw's "Greatest Generation" might tell of combat veterans and such, we can also commemorate Elsie's many years of service to country via the Army National Guard.
For me and for all that have known Elsie, she is a bona fide member of The Greatest Generation.
And, as Jesus proclaimed in the Bible regarding those most worthy of contributing to life on this planet: "You are the Salt of the Earth". Elsie, you are the Salt of the Earth, and may you rest in God's peace, forever.
