McELWAIN, Johnnie L. - b. September 28, 1953 - d. February 21, 2026

[patyrn]

Johnnie L. McElwain, age 72, of Elk City, Kansas, entered into rest on February 21, 2026 at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  He was born on September 28, 1953 in Independence, Kansas to John Delbert and Wanda America (Foster) McElwain. 

John attended and graduated from Elk Valley High School in Longton, Kansas in 1971.  Following his education, John moved to Wyoming where he worked as a crane operator, truck driver, and heavy equipment operator.  During his time in Wyoming, he proudly earned his pilot's license.

John married Wonieta Thompson on Mary 28, 1982.  Throughout the years, the couple made their home in Elk City, Kansas, Cleveland, Missouri, and Kansas City before returning to Elk City in 1995.  They later divorced in 2000.  On June 4, 2002, John married Holly Welch.  The couple lived in Olathe, Kansas until John's retirement in 2004 when they returned to Elk City to enjoy a quieter life together.

John found great joy in attending his grandchildren's activities and sporting events.  He enjoyed long country drives, fishing, and spending time outdoors working in his yard on his tractor.  Time with family was always what meant the most to him. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Holly McElwain of the home; one son, Johnnie (Amber) McElwain of Elk City, Kansas; one daughter, Mandi (Josh) Johnson of Elk City, Kansas; three stepdaughters, Jennifer (John) Robinson of Toronto, Kansas, Jessica (Steven) Robinson of Ketchum, Oklahoma, and Amanda (Joshua) Long of Havana; Kansas; three sisters, Glenda Jean McLaughlin of 'Temecula California, Genneth Moon of Topeka, Kansas, and Judy Skipper of Whitesburg, Georgia; five grandchildren, Ashton Oliver, Addison (Sidney) Simmons, Hayden Simmons, Joshlynn Johnson, and Journey Johnson; three great-grandchildren, Brittyn, Sable Oliver, and Rylen Simmons, along with numerous step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Jimmie Lynn McElwain; and three sisters, Jannet Imler, Twyla McElwain, and Marie McElwain.

Funeral service was held on February 28, 2026 at Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory followed by cremation..  Memorial contributions may be made to the Louisburg Township Rural Fire District and may be left with Webb & Rodrick Chapel, 306 W. Main Street, Independence, Kansas 67301. 

(taken from the Webb & Rodrick Chapel website)