Bert F. Elsey Jr's Obituary
76, of Grapevine, Texas, passed away January 24, 2015 at his home after a lengthy illness. The son of Bert F. Elsey, Sr. and Willie Minalee Elsey, he was born June 25, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, (or “far North Dallas” as he always proclaimed Oak Lawn Ave to be at that time). Bert served in the military as a member of the Air National Guard of Texas and as a Reserve of the US Air Force. He was a graduate of North Dallas High School, attended Texas A&M, SMU, and graduated from Arlington State College of the University of Texas in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He was a Registered Professional Engineer, with a career of service in the public sector as City Engineer for Mesquite and Richardson, Texas, and Assistant Director of Public Works for Irving, Texas. He also served in the private sector in the management of various engineering consulting firms in Dallas County. He was a Home Builder and Real Estate Broker in Tarrant County the last few years of his career. Bert was a member of the First Baptist Church of Grapevine. He was an avid recreational sailor and became a golf enthusiast after his retirement. Bert was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 37 years, Dorothy Elsey; sister, Glenda K Petkus of Southlake, Texas; and brother, Larry W. Elsey-of McKinney, Texas. Bert was blessed with the experience of fatherhood and being a grandparent, (albeit unexpectedly shortened) having a daughter, Claire, and son, Trey, whom he loved dearly, a grandson Jake and granddaughter Rachel whom he delightfully spoke about. He also held a special place in his heart for his step-daughter, Sara. A supplemental blessing in that regard was the love and attention of his numerous nieces and nephews, and he reveled in being called “Uncle Bert” by all children, whether related or not. At Bert’s request, a celebration of his life for the immediate family and closest friends will be held, and there will be no formal service. Bert also requested that contributions be made to the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, 2222 Welborn Street, Dallas, Texas 75219, in lieu of flowers and other gifts of condolence.
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