Obituary of Franklin H. Eilers

Franklin H. (Frank) Eilers, age 91, went to be with our Lord on February 16, 2010 in Willis. Franklin was born September 10, 1918 in Clarksville to the late Frank and Mayme (Bachman) Eilers and lived there until he went to serve his country during World War II in the 7th Armored Division of the U.S. Army. On September 18, 1943, Franklin married Dorcas Butts of Clarksville who was from their first meeting, the love of his life. He had a satisfying career as a mechanic and shop foreman with the Permian Corp; later name Occidental Petroleum Company. He and Dorcas lived in Mercedes from 1945 to 1965 and then moved to Weslaco where they retired together. Franklin cared for his loving wife until her death in 2006 from Alzheimer’s. Frank had a longtime love of bowling and treasured the camaraderie of his many bowling buddies and friends I the Rio Grande Valley area. He is survived by his two beloved daughters, Patricia Ann and husband Grady Fossier of Willis and Betty Ruth and husband David Gower of Tyler; his two grandsons, Michael Fossier and wife, Susan, of Montgomery and Eric Fossler and wife Rolanda of Willis; and his two granddaughters, Pamela Gower of Tyler and Kimberly and husband Chris Pogue of Wichita Falls; and his great-grandson, Nathaniel Fossier of Montgomery, his pride and joy; a brother, Robert (Bobby) Eilers and wife Loretta of Mercedes; and numerous nieces and nephews; as well as other extended family; and a host of loving and caring friends. Graveside services are 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 22, 2010 in Fairview Cemetery with Rev. Mike Kimmel officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Clarksville Funeral Home. Memorials contributions may be given in the name of Franklin Eilers to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Mercedes, Texas his home church of 60 + years.