Thomas A. McElwee III

MCELWEE THOMAS A., III Age 96, of Broomall, PA, passed away on May 16, 2024, beloved family man, esteemed military veteran, dedicated teacher, and highly respected community volunteer. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Thomas A., Jr. and Florence (née Oehrich) McElwee. Tom led an adventurous life from a young age. After graduating from Upper Darby High School in June 1945, he enlisted in the US Navy, following in the footsteps of his family members who served in the Navy. Tom served aboard the USS Independence CVL-22 during World War II, where he worked in the post office and rose to the rank of second mailman, third class. Tom's naval service also included witnessing the nuclear weapon tests in the Bikini Atoll as part of "Operation Crossroads." Following his military service, Tom married Kathleen Patterson and started a family. He also started a printing business in Philadelphia and later taught lithography, printing, and commercial photography at Marple Vo-Tech for 12 years. Passionate about scuba diving, Tom became a certified diver in 1964 and taught search and recovery techniques at many area schools. He also volunteered with local police departments for search and recovery incidents and served as a crossing guard for the Marple-Newtown School District for over a decade. Tom was also a dedicated member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and enjoyed fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. Tom was the beloved husband of the late Kathleen (née Patterson) McElwee, loving father of Colleen McElwee, Patrick McElwee (Maureen), Kathleen Walker (Michael), Mare McElwee and the late John McElwee. Proud grandfather of Shaun McElwee (Melissa), Michael McElwee (Janelle), Kevin McElwee, Holly Hogan (Brendan), Michael Walker (Lia), and Shannon Gilcken (Jon). Loving great-grandfather of Hailey McElwee, Maddison McElwee, Connor McElwee, Mia McElwee, Hudson Hogan, Bennett Hogan, Colleen Hogan, KJ Gilcken, Carter Gilcken, and Colton Gilcken. Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation, Thursday, May 30, 2024, 10 – 11 A.M. at THE DONOHUE FUNERAL HOME, 3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073, 610-353-6300, followed by his Celebration of Life Service, 11 A.M. Interment SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfileld, PA, with Military Honors. www.donohuefuneralhome.com