International Representative Elsten Maxwell passed away at his home on December 10, 2000 after a long battle with cancer. He was 55 years old and is survived by his wife Karen and two daughters.

On Sunday, December 16, there was a Memorial Service held in Sacramento, California for friends and family. The following is an excerpt from the memorial program.

“Elsten was born in Vallejo, CA. He and his brother, John Allen, were raised in Chico by their parents, Melvin Elsten and Frances.

After graduating from high school, Elsten married Linda while he was in the army. They were stationed in Germany.

After returning to the states, Elsten upheld a family tradition and began working as a projectionist. He and Linda were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Michelle and Deanna, who then blessed them with three sweet granddaughters.

After a divorce, Elsten married Karen in 1982. In 1990, they moved to their present residence in Pilot Hill. They loved to travel and took numerous trips around the United States with one trip to Europe.

Throughout his life, Elsten was proud to be a member of the Projectionist labor union, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employes, working in many different capacities.

Square dancing was also a big part of his life. One time he and Karen danced 123 consecutive nights! He was also a huge Elvis fan and visited Graceland five times.

Elsten was a real “people person” and enjoyed being with friends and family. He enjoyed life to the fullest and put his whole heart into everything he did.

He was a very special person to many people. Elsten will live forever in all of our hearts!”

The Maxwell Family has requested that instead of flowers, donations to the Richard F. Walsh/Alfred W. Di Tolla/Harold P. Spivak Foundation would be appreciated.