Dorothy L. Elsner

Dorothy L. Elsner, a cherished member of the Dayton community and a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026. Born in Dayton on January 7, 1928, Dorothy’s life was marked by dedication, love, and a profound commitment to family and community.

A graduate of Roosevelt High School, Dorothy dedicated over twenty years of her professional career as a secretary for R O Whitesell. Her work was characterized by diligence and a quiet strength that earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike.

Dorothy’s personal life was rich with joyful pursuits and deep connections. She and her late husband, Robert N. Elsner, Jr., were devoted members of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Dayton for an extraordinary seventy years, where they played an active role in church life. Together, they nurtured a passion for square dancing, leading a club with friends and sharing moments of joy through this beloved activity until circumstances necessitated their retirement from dancing.

An avid traveler, Dorothy explored many places dear to her heart, including England, Hawaii, Michigan and Florida. She was a proud and devoted mother who treasured her family above all. Dorothy and Bob enjoyed camping with their family including a three week trip to California. They were a steadfast presence at their grandchildren's sporting and school events, embodying unwavering support and love.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years, Robert N. Elsner, Jr., her father Charles Keener, her mother Anna Keener, her daughter Carolyn L. Cushman, her granddaughter Abby J. Elsner, her sister Doris Jean Day, her brother Robert C. Keener, and her sister Catherine A. Conley.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Laura J. (Rick) Hawkins; her son, Stephen D. (Mary) Elsner; three granddaughters, Amber L. (Andy) Loveland, Ashley N. (Scott) Oda, and Erin L. (Mike) Reynolds; and a grandson, Christopher A. (Amy) Hawkins. Her legacy continues through her four great-grandsons, Dustin (Stephanie) Cushman, Nolan Oda, Ryder Zink, and Bennett Reynolds; five great-granddaughters, Paige Tortorelli, Riley Oda, Carsen Oda, Adelyn Hawkins, Natalie Reynolds, and Journee Zink; and four great-great-granddaughters, Scarlett Cushman, Haidyn Tortorelli, Violet Cushman, and Hailey Cushman. Dorothy is also survived by numerous other family members and friends who will remember her kindness and generosity.

A visitation will be held at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at 5550 Munger Rd, Dayton, OH 45459, on June 23, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at the same location, commencing at 12:00 PM and concluding at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Miami Valley Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund or Ohio's Hospice of Dayton.

Dorothy L. Elsner’s life was a testament to love, faith, and community, and her memory will remain a guiding light for all who had the privilege to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with affection and respect. To share a memory of Dorothy or leave a special message for her family, please visit the Guestbook below.