Skip to main content

Harold Elsis, 81

Wed, 12/03/2025 - 18:25

It is with heavy hearts to announce Harold Luke Elsis, a cherished resident of Montauk, NY, peacefully departed us on Sunday, October 26, 2025. A life described as being filled with love, adventure, and achievement, which began in Brooklyn, September 1,1944.

Harold’s journey was marked by an entrepreneurial spirit and an uncanny ability to connect with those around him. Beginning in the ’70s, he co-owned and operated The Graphic Word in NYC, showcasing skills as a talented typographer. His passion for business led him to open several restaurants, delighting patrons with his culinary prowess. In 1997, Harold transitioned to becoming a permanent resident of Montauk, having owned land there since 1979.

His diverse interests kept him active and engaged throughout life, highlighted by countless dive trips as a certified SCUBA instructor. These led to exotic locations in Micronesia, the Indian Ocean, and the Caribbean, where his erudite nature led to fellowship and an affinity for disparate cultures. There was also joy in fishing, maintaining his potager, and a love for cooking and hospitality.

Harold is survived by his loving wife of over 45 years, Lili Elsis. His adoration for his three children, Dinamarie, Steven, and Jonathan, was marked by devotion and passion. His tender fondness for family extended to Steven’s wife, Jennifer, and his grandchildren Chase, Olivia, and Marli. Harold was preceded in death by his father, Harold Luke Elsis Sr., and his mother, Catherine Elsis.

A celebrated man who lived fully and loved deeply. His legacy and spirit continues to guide and inspire others.

Villages

Village’s New Chief Lifeguard Was N.Y.P.D. Diver

Memorial Day weekend was a washout at East Hampton Village’s vaunted beaches, but inclement weather did not dampen the enthusiasm felt by Sean Daly for his new role as the village’s chief lifeguard, succeeding Drew Smith.

May 28, 2026

Item of the Week: Elizabeth Parsons Edwards, a Portrait

Elizabeth Parsons Edwards (1874-1943), seen in this undated photo, worked her family farm on Fireplace Road, canning vegetables and making everything from butter to clothing to music.

May 28, 2026

L.I.R.R. Strike Settled in Time for the Onslaught

New York City residents who plan to spend Memorial Day weekend on the South Fork and commuters who rely on the train to cut through the eastbound morning traffic were breathing easier as of Monday night, when a strike called by a coalition of five Long Island Rail Road unions was settled.

May 21, 2026

 

Your support for The East Hampton Star helps us deliver the news, arts, and community information you need. Whether you are an online subscriber, get the paper in the mail, delivered to your door in Manhattan, or are just passing through, every reader counts. We value you for being part of The Star family.

Your subscription to The Star does more than get you great arts, news, sports, and outdoors stories. It makes everything we do possible.