Elmer C. Laslo

LASLO- Elmer Charles, 74, was called to heaven on January 4, 2023 after a 2 year battle with leukemia and lymphoma. He was born in Johnstown on November 16, 1948 to Elmer and Matilda (Matchik) Laslo, who both preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Barbara (Beddow) Laslo.  In addition, he is survived by his 2 daughters, Jill (Dan) Bauer; Lauren (Matt) Whitman, his 4 grandchildren, Andrew and Julia Bauer; Keira and Brooke Whitman, his brother, Richard (Mary Jo) Laslo and sister-in-law, Kathryn (Eric) Gibson. Also surviving are numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.  He graduated from Westmont Hilltop in 1966 and Geneva College in 1970, where he played football and later was inducted into the Hall of Fame. He was also a graduate of the School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin where he returned to run the school of banking for two summers.  He was in the PA National Guard for 6 years (1970-1976).  He became the president and CEO of Salix State Bank in 1977. Elmer went on to grow the Bank which later became known as 1^st Summit Bank.  He held this position for 43 years and in turn many of his employees became like family to him. Up until his death, he served as president and CEO of the 1^st Summit Bank Holding Company. Elmer was inducted into the Cambria County Business Hall of Fame in 2022.  He has been honored by various other organizations over the years for his dedication, hard work and love for his community. Giving back to the community and serving on various boards and committees was important to Elmer.  He served on the boards of Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Johnstown Area Heritage Association, Johnstown Area Regional Industries, the Community Arts Center of Cambria County, Enterprise Venture Capital Corporation and The Johnstown Business District Development Corporation.  He served as the Chairman for Pennsylvania Bankers of America in 2007 and was honored for 50 years of service to the banking industry.  He was part of the Young Presidents Organization for over 30 years and created many invaluable friendships.  Elmer was a longtime member of Christ Lutheran Church where he served on church council.  He could be found volunteering his time at countless events in Johnstown. In his free time, Elmer enjoyed traveling to his second home in Marco Island, Florida. He also looked forward to time with his grandchildren and attending sporting events and festivals in Johnstown.  Whether it was racquetball, basketball, cross country skiing, tennis, running or pickleball, Elmer found a way to be active.  Visitation for family and friends will be Noon to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm Sunday at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Johnstown, PA 15904 and 1 to 2 pm Monday  at Christ Lutheran Church, 337 Elknud Lane, Johnstown, PA 15905. Funeral Service at 2 pm.  Entombment will follow at Grandview Cemetery. Family suggests donations be made to the Community Foundation so the family can distribute to some of the nonprofits that were near and dear to Elmer’s heart. The Community Foundation, 216 Franklin St., Ste 400, Johnstown, PA 15901 www.cfalleghenies.org Rest in peace thy good and faithful servant. You will be missed by so many.