John Edward McElwain passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on April 3, 2026. John was born to Burl and Inez McElwain towards the end of WWII in Claremore OK where his parents had a café and gas station on Route 66. Hunting, fishing, farming, football and church were a way of life in Oklahoma and Kansas where he grew up. He excelled as an athlete in high school. He owned a drugstore in Douglas Kansas after High School, reminiscent of Mayberry with a soda fountain and counter seating. John had been a Junior Chamber of Commerce member, volunteer firefighter, volunteer police deputy. He was an outdoorsman, hunting, fishing, golf, trap and skeet shooting. John was a master golf club fitter. His Club Medic trailer was frequently seen at the China Lake Golf Course. Fishing was a passion, he had great fish stories and good, sometimes grumpy friends to vie for the best spot, biggest catch. He was active with his girls’ interests, horses to coaching baseball. He wore his Oklahoma football shirts proudly, always an Okie. John joined the Navy after it was likely a letter of “Greetings” could be coming his way. He thought the Navy was a better fit for him. He was proud of his service and had many adventures, he saw a lot of the world and retired after 20 years. He then retired from China Lake Naval Weapons Station after a 25 year career. He is survived by his wife, Gail, of 56 years, his daughters Paulette McElwain, Suzanne McElwain, granddaughter Ashley Metz and many nieces and nephews He is preceded in death by his parents, Burl and Inez McElwain, also sisters, Barbara Kersh and Margaret Graves. 

John will be laid to rest October 2 nd , 2026 at Bakersfield National Cemetery, Arvin California, with military honors.