Francis E. Stern
Early Life
Francis Edward Stern was born on May 7, 1894, in New York City. By the time of the First World War, he had established a clear connection to Rye, New York, residing at 38 Highland Road while working as an insurance broker in New York City, with offices at 120 Broadway.
He was well educated, having attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and was already married to Gladys Goodman by 1915, beginning family life just prior to his military service.
World War I Service
Stern entered military service on November 5, 1917, when he enlisted in the Regular Army at Springfield Armory, Massachusetts. He was assigned to the Ordnance Department, a critical branch responsible for the supply, maintenance, and distribution of weapons, ammunition, and military equipment.
The Ordnance Department played a vital role in sustaining American forces during World War I, ensuring that front-line units were equipped with the necessary materiel for combat operations. Its responsibilities extended from manufacturing and storage to repair and logistical coordination both in the United States and overseas.
Stern advanced rapidly in rank, being promoted to Sergeant upon enlistment and later to Ordnance Sergeant on January 29, 1918, reflecting both technical proficiency and leadership within a highly specialized branch.
He served overseas in France from February 27, 1918, to April 2, 1919, a period that included the major American campaigns of 1918 as well as the post-Armistice occupation.
He sustained no wounds or injuries in action and was honorably discharged on April 7, 1919. His service was further recognized by the awarding of the Meritorious Conduct Citation (M.C.C.), indicating distinguished service within his role.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Stern settled in Hartford, Connecticut, where he built a highly successful business career. He founded Stern & Company, Inc., which grew from a retail operation into a pioneering wholesale distributor of radio parts, radio sets, and later electrical and gas home appliances.
He served as president of the company until his retirement in 1953 and became a leader in the electrical distribution industry. His professional influence extended nationally, including service on the Board of Governors of the National Association of Electrical Distributors.
Stern was also deeply involved in civic and charitable work. He served as president of the Hartford Jewish Federation, was active in Junior Achievement at both regional and national levels, and held leadership roles within the Hartford Jewish Community Center and Temple Beth Israel.
Francis E. Stern died on August 14, 1981, in West Hartford, Connecticut, at the age of 87.
He was survived by his wife, Gladys Stern; his daughter, Margery Cahn; his sister, Doris W. Stern; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.