Roxborough Native, U.S. Navy Vet And Mechanic, Dies At 75

Obituary and image courtesy Schneider Funeral Home.

HORSHAM, PA -- Elias E Evans, III, of Horsham, passed away Thursday, March 31, 2016.

He was 75.

Born in Roxborough, he was the son of the late Elizabeth (Taylor) & Elias E. Evans. Eli served in the U.S. Navy stationed aboard the U.S.S. Forrestal.

He attended Penn State University and was later employed with Philadelphia Electric in the Maintenance Department. He was a proud member of the Richmond-Solomon Lodge #3, F. & A.M., Philadelphia and a member of Supplee Presbyterian Church.

As a teenager, his grandfather would take him on an annual trip from New York City up the Hudson to West Point aboard the Alexander Hamilton.

Eli would spend much of this time in the engine room fascinated with the mechanics of a steam engine. Later he spent several years building a steam launch similar to the African Queen.

His other great hobby was everything related to trains.

He took several train trips throughout the United States. Eli had a great appreciation for the Philadelphia Orchestra and attended several concerts a year with his sisters. Mahler was his favorite composer.

He enjoyed spending time outdoors, gardening, working out in the gym, and had a special fondness for dogs. Eli will be remembered as someone who was extremely handy and creative, and who was always willing to help others. Surviving Eli are his sisters Elizabeth Evans Kessler, Susan Evans Hagenbuch (Homer), his nieces Susan Kessler, Lyz Hagenbuch (Ric Giantisco), Anna Kessler, Jessica Kessler, his nephew David Hagenbuch, and their beloved black lab Chloe.

Interment will be held in Forest Hill Memorial Park on Saturday, April 9 at 9:00 a.m. for close friends and family. Friends will be received by his family after 10:00 a.m. in Supplee Presbyterian Church, 855 Welsh Rd, Maple Glen, PA 19002, and are invited to attend his memorial service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please remember Elias through your gift to the Supplee Presbyterian Church Organ Fund at the address above.