FRED C. ELLENBERGERFred C. Ellenberger, Lieutenant - April 13, 1950 (#108)
Truck Co. No. 3 - 1067 Post Street

BERYEN RUG CO. - FALL FROM LADDER

Lt. Fred Ellenberger 47, who helped fight many of San Francisco’s fiercest fires during his 23 year career, last night died while responding to the simplest of all fire alarms – a lockout.

He fell from a ladder while attempting to aid an employe of the Beryen Carpet Co., 77 Hyde Street, to lock a rolling door. Police said they would be unable to determine until after an autopsy whether Lieutenant Ellenberger collapsed from a heart condition or suffered a fatal head injury in the fall.

Lt. Ellenberger, who served most of his career with Truck Company 3 and was nearing retirement, answered a call to the Hyde Street address at 10:08 pm. The call was sent in by David Mason, 3882 Twenty-fifth Street, and employe of the firm, who said he was unable to lock the door for the night.

A ladder was placed against the six-foot high door, and Lt. Ellenberger ascended. A moment later, he plunged to the ground. He was dead on arrival at the Central Emergency Hospital.

Lt. Ellenberger was appointed to the department in July of 1927. He was named a lieutenant in 1943. His father, Capt. Fred A. Ellenberger, died in 1914 after a distinguished career.

Survivors include the widow, Mollie, who lives 1318 Twenty-third Street; a daughter, Ruth, and a son, Fred Jr. Funeral services are pending.

Extracted from original sources with grammar and spelling as published.