Robert Franklin Ennis Sr. of Rye and Westhampton Beach, Long Island, a longtime advertising executive, died peacefully on October 15, 2017 at the age of 93.
Born in San Francisco, Frank, as he was known, attended Stanford University until World War II broke out and he transferred to the Naval Academy. After serving his country, he earned a degree in Engineering. Following graduation in 1947, he remained in the Navy for seven years, stationed primarily in the Mediterranean. A fellow officer introduced him to Betsy Simpson in New York, and they married in 1952.
Following the Navy, Frank worked as an advertising account executive or division manager for BBDO, Glaxo, Smith-Kline Beecham, and Hoffmann-LaRoche, with clients such as Chanel and Yardley.
Frank and Betsy raised their four children, Wynne, Rob, and twins Lisa and Cam in Rye. In 1999, a tragic plane crash took the lives of Betsy Ennis and sons Rob and Cam, who had all been on safari. To honor Rob, Mr. Ennis donated a ship model that Rob had built, which is displayed in the ballroom at American Yacht Club.
At age 80, Mr. Ennis started a bridge club at the Westhampton Beach Free Library, and continued organizing duplicate bridge for over 80 members until a few weeks ago. An avid tennis player, he put away his racquet at the age of 90.
In addition to his daughters, Wynne Ennis and Lisa Barron, Mr. Ennis is survived by his granddaughters, Alyssa Lawson, Lindsay Syhakhom, and Leigh Barron, and his grandson, Mason Barron.
A memorial service was held at Rye Presbyterian Church on November 2. Donations in Mr. Ennis’ name may be made to The S.E.L.F.-Help Foundation, 570 Main Street, New Rochelle, NY 10801.
