Arthur Neil McElroy of Rainier, Oregon, died May 29, 1998, at the age of 71.
Mr. McElroy was born September 22, 1926 in Long Pine, Nebraska,
to Calvin and Cora (Adams) McElroy, the 11th of 12 children.
The family moved to Springfield, Oregon in 1934.
During the second World War, he
served in the Pacific Theater
on USS LSM-18, taking part in eight invasions in nine months.
He was a charter member of the Springfield, OR, VFW.
He was a life member of the National LSM-LSM/R Association
He moved to the local area from
Springfield in 1967.
He joined the Loyal Order of Moose, St. Helens, in 1967.
He served as Chaplain, and Jr. Governor then as Governor in 1974-1975.
Mr. McElroy was a steamfitter by
trade,
a 37-year member of U.A.Plumbers & Fitters Local #290.
After his retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren,
working with his tractor, and attending LSM-18 reunions.
He is survived by his wife of 29
years, Marguerite;
sons Robert and Gary, both of Springfield;
daughter, Sheila McCallister of Clatskanie;
step-children: Michael Barnes of McAllen, Texas;
Patrick Barnes of Roseville, California;
Rebecca Bozart of St. Helens;
A brother, Donald and a sister, Leila Richardson, both of Springfield;
23 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded
in death by a son, Steven McElroy, and a grandson, Joseph Bozart.
Also by sisters Alice, Olive,and Shirley, and brothers Harvey, Thomas,
Alfred, Everett, Orie, and Kenneth.
There will be no service, by the
request of the deceased.
The Columbia Funeral home is in charge.