Joseph G. Elnar was a professional in the pool and spa industry. He recently died leaving behind many loved ones, innovative solutions, and an inspiring leadership style.
Joseph was a young man who learned hard work and discipline in his hometown of Safra (Lebanon). His weekends, summer break, and holidays were spent working for his father, a Mobile Oil distributor, who also owned a gas station. Joseph’s dream of traveling overseas became a reality when he was 19 years old.
Joseph began his journey in America with a suitcase and big dreams. While he was studying English, he worked as a bank clerk. He was one semester away from becoming a mechanical engineer, but he ran out funds. Joseph had to take a job as a spa manufacturer shop manager to make ends meet. He also started his own spa repair business, which he focused on extra work after-hours and weekends.
Joseph was soon elected president of Hot Water Products, a major spa component manufacturer in the eighties. He began his long and distinguished career in spa industry shortly after, starting his own company called “Genesis”, then incorporating “Acura Spa Systems” in 1987.
Joseph has been in the pool and spa industry for 34 years. His engineering innovations were numerous and have earned him 21 U.S. Patents. Some of Joseph’s other brilliant ideas were stolen by others before patent processing. Joseph managed to create innovative products and build an empire despite these difficulties.
Joseph was a loving son, brother and father. He was affectionately called the “gentle giant” by his friends because he cared about others more than himself. Joseph, despite his brilliance was not interested in grabbing the spotlight for himself. Joseph was selfless and patient, but he was also kind to others. He was a unique man who could strengthen global relationships with his family and friends, his colleagues, customers, suppliers, and the local community.
Joseph’s love of Lebanon had a profound impact on his life. His retirement plan was for Mirna, his beloved wife, to return to Safra. He recalled fondly the memories of his time at boarding school and skiing in Lebanon’s mountains throughout his life. As he watched the daily news about Lebanon, he was shocked to see his country fall under such severe economic pressures. Joe was a generous person who was always giving back to the community. Safra was his hometown. He gave generously.
The United States and Lebanon were greatly affected by Joseph’s passing. His professional and personal contributions to society were incomparable. He was an honorable man and a genius who was truly respected by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
