I did restore with a backup, and finally did discover the problem. Someone mentioned using a different program to edit php files with. I had been using Micro$oft Expression Web, and if you are cringing right now, let me explain that it's the software my boss bought for me to use on the company FP enabled website.

Once I downloaded Notepad++ and used that program to edit files, all the problems disappeared. I went on to create my own template and installed it successfully.

The strange thing about Expression Web, I was editing carefully in code view but it was making undetectable changes. I don't know what it was doing but it wasn't me. I kept performing the exact steps over and over and there were always errors. Notepad++ made it a breeze. It was a real relief! More than one program was mentioned here on the forum, I just happened to choose the Notepad++.

Lesson---if the pros on the forum suggest the problem is your software, believe it! Save yourself days of tearing your hair out!