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John Edward McELWEE

John McELWEE Obituary

McELWEE, John Edward 72, Seminole, FL. Born Oct. 9, 1940, passed Nov. 19, 2012. A promising hockey career was unexpectedly cut short this week. The youngest of 6 children, John was born in Dearborn, MI. He attended Sacred Heart High School where he captained both the football and baseball teams. His love of hockey grew while playing and coaching in the Detroit area for many years, often shuttling kids to and from the rink in his VW bus. His three sons, John, Matt and Mark, enjoyed John's time and effort the most. He is the founder of the Olde Michiganders hockey team, which traveled each year to Florida for tournament play. He was persuaded by these trips to make Florida his home. John skated regularly in Clearwater and coached new players, including his wife, Vicki, introducing them to the game he loved. His sense of humor was rivaled only by his good looks. He enjoyed visits with his three grandchildren, Chrissie, Pat and Eleanor, both in Florida and at their home in Michigan. He showed his usual great hustle even in his final game last week, assisting on a goal on his final shift in a 3-2 victory. Family and friends are invited to Clearwater Ice Arena on Friday, Nov. 23 between 3-6 pm, to celebrate his illustrious career. Another celebration in the Detroit area is planned. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, or to a charity of your choice.

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Published by Tampa Bay Times from Nov. 22 to Nov. 23, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for John McELWEE

15 Entries

Jodi Kaufman

November 30, 2012

Vicki,
I was saddened to hear about John. You and John were a joy to play with on the old Red Barons team you started. John was always willing to help those of us who were beginners. You have my deepest sympathy.

November 30, 2012

The Penn family shared many gatherings with the McElwee family when we were kids. My fondest memory was our trip to Florida. I will always remember Mr McElwee's smile and laughter. God Bless. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family. The Penn kids (Wendy, Rog, Craig, Cheryl, and Dave)

Jeanette Hayden

November 28, 2012

Dear Vicki,
I am so sorry to hear about John's passing. I really enjoyed helping you and John with your Real Eastate needs. You are both great people. May Our Dear Lord provide comfort to you at this most difficult time.

Gary Gale

November 27, 2012

I was very sad to hear today that John McElwee passed away. John was a great friend that would always would help you out. He never said no. When you wanted advice he was always there to talk to you. You may not of liked what he had to say... but he always told the truth and gave good advice. I can't say how many times he helped me get through difficult times. It was a real pleasure to play hockey with John and his sons over the years. If you really wanted to learn the game of hockey then you best listen or watch John. He took the game very serious and always gave 110%. He was a great leader and motivator. He loved his family and was very proud of them. When he worked for us at the Sportswear over the years he was always the hardest worker and insisted on staying on task. He was a great mentor to us younger guys. He was a friend to all. He respected everyone and was respected by everyone. What a rare person and what a priviledge to be his friend on and off the ice. When I told the rest of my family he passed away, everyone felt a real loss. John thank you for all your help and friendship over the years. You made this world a better place for me and many others. Please say hello to my father for me, he always thought you were a great guy. Vicki you are in our thoughts and prayers.

John M

Predators Hockey team

November 26, 2012

John in front

Predators Hockey team

November 26, 2012

John in action

Predators Hockey team

November 26, 2012

John Playing "D"

Predators Hockey team

November 26, 2012

Bill Ventola

November 26, 2012

John was a great guy and will be missed

Charlene (Hopper) Kovacs

November 25, 2012

I worked with John at Lever Brothers for over 20 years. He had a great sense of humor and it was a pleasure working with him. My sympathy is extended to his wife Vicki and his boys. His love of hockey was only second to his love of family!

Stacy Taylor

November 23, 2012

John was someone who always did the right thing. I always looked forward to getting a call on my cell to sub as goalie on Monday nights. He was always willing to give me a chance and ice time throughout the 20 years I've known him. John was a supportive and encouraging presence on and off the ice. My thoughts are with John's wife who also happens to be his best friend and his family. You are missed John.

November 23, 2012

John had a way of telling us all the truth in a manner we could accept. On the ice, you worked hard not to disappoint him and on other subjects you knew he might not say want you wanted to hear, but what you should hear. Vicki, you are one of the strongest women I know, but we are all here should need anything....Love Lauren Skiver #13 Original Coyote Team

Jeff Cunningham

November 22, 2012

I have skated with John for the past four years. He had phenomenal talent on the ice. Even at 72, he skated stride for stride with twenty year olds and at times, went toe to toe with them. He was not only one of the greatest players that I have had the opportunity to skate with, he was one of the most genuinely nice people I have ever known. His personality was unrivaled and his sense of humor unmatched. The locker room will feel empty without him, and the ice will miss his presence. My prayers go out to Vicki and John's family. Please remember that your hockey family is here for anything that you may need.

Capt. Bob Dyer

November 22, 2012

The NHL awards the "Lady Byng Trophy" to the, "player adjudged to have exhibited the best type of sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct combined with a high standard of playing ability". That statement sums up the type of person and player John was. A rare combination. We will miss you John.

Dan & Jen Meadows

November 22, 2012

Vicki and John's boys... what a wonderful obit! Sooo very John! He would have loved it! He will truly be missed by many. It was a privilege, an honor, and a great pleasure to know him.

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