In loving memory of
John Michael “Jack” Elwarner

August 02, 1939

-

October 09, 2016

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Obituary

John “Jack” Elwarner of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, passed away Sunday, October 9th, 2016, at the age of 77, at Halifax Hospital in Daytona Beach, Florida. Jack enjoyed race-walking and biking, competing all over the world and taking home many first place awards, medals, and t-shirts. His love of exercise and nutrition defined who he was. He enjoyed biking the trails and the entire city of New Smyrna Beach while talking to anyone and everyone along the way. No one was a stranger to Jack. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan and he loved to read Vietnam war books. He was a generous man who would stop to help anyone in need.

Jack was born on August 2nd, 1939 in Pittsburgh, PA and was the son of the late John and Kathleen Elwarner. He grew up in Detroit where he graduated from Denby High School, Class of 1958. He was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps. Jack married Donna (Poplawski) who preceded him in death. They raised their three loving children in Yale, Michigan. He later married Margaret “Peg” Gerada. Jack retired from Chrysler Corporation in 1994 at age 54 after 30 years of employment. Jack and Peg purchased their retirement home and moved to Florida in 2010 where he was a member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in New Smyrna Beach, FL.

He is survived by his loving wife, Peg and three children, Lynn (Leroy) Atkinson, Brian (Robin) Elwarner, Lori (Mike) Sullivan, as well as four grandchildren, Jack, Drew, Megan and Rebecca. He is also survived by step-daughters, Sally Juenemann and Brenda (Todd) Getz, step-granddaughter Savanna, and step-great-grandsons, Landon and Liam. Jack is also survived by his brother, Jim (Marilyn) Elwarner and his precious dog, Buttons “Pooker”.

A memorial service will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea on Friday, October 14th, 2016 at 11:00 am in New Smyrna Beach where family and friends will remember Jack and celebrate his life, followed by a luncheon. A second service will take place soon thereafter in Michigan. Memorial donations are requested to Wounded Warriors or American Heart Association.

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Mary & Bill Waters says:

17 Oct 2016

When Mary & I first moved to New Smyrna Beach a few years back after retiring from the Navy, we were about to run our very first 5K race starting at the NSB Community Center. We didn't know a single sole when we drove into the adjacent parking area and who should pull up right next to us but Jack. He offered us an initial cheery "Good Morning" and I soon asked where he was from and he quickly volunteered that he was from Michigan and had literally just driven in from there that same morning. He got out of the car, put on his shoes, ran (speed walked) the race, and we were friends from then on for many, many races thereafter. He was always the benchmark for us in knowing that we were in the right race for the right cause and made it fun for everybody around him. Well done, Marine. Fair winds and following seas, shipmate. Rest in peace, we have the watch.
Greg and Carole Chaban and family says:

15 Oct 2016

We are so very sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed our visits with you and Uncle Jack. I wish it could have been more often. He was always very kind and caring.
I admired his strength and positive attitude and the inspiration he gave me with his motivation. I always envied how active he was with his running and cycling.
He will be deeply missed. He was loved very much.
Our prayers for you and the family for the strength to get you all through this most difficult time.
Greg and Carole Chaban and family lit a candle:

15 Oct 2016
gilda kreucher says:

13 Oct 2016

JACK YOU WILL BE MISSED NOT ONLY FOR YOUR HUMOR YOUR KINDNESS BUT ALWAYS YOUR CONCERN FOR OTHERS.

lOVE
Cousin
Gilda
Linda Case says:

13 Oct 2016

My deepest condolences to Peg and both families. Jack was such an inspiration! I always admired his zest for living a healthy lifestyle. May your cherished memories of Jack help carry you through. He will be missed.
Linda
Sun City, AZ
Gary & Sandra Arnold says:

12 Oct 2016

Deepest sympathy from your Beresford neighbors, just heart broken to hear about Jacks passing, he was just always so kind, always working in his yard, making it look so beautiful! Would catch him walking down the street with a wave and a smile. Enjoyed sharing his birthday with Gary! We send our condolences to Peg, Buttons and family.
Jane Lavelle says:

12 Oct 2016

We miss you, Jack! We will miss our conversations especially on Super Bowl Sunday. Red and I really respect your dedication to race walking, logging your times and especially your life in general. Now your with your Mom & Dad and all the people who went before you. Love you, Jack
Sandy Drader says:

12 Oct 2016

A wonderful man. His kindness and generousity were endless. I met Peg at work and became good friends, but Jack soon became a good friend also. Always thoughtful, and wanting to make sure I had eaten. (Good food of course)
I have only good thoughts and memories of both Jack and Peg. Love them, Sandy Drader
Jane andRed Lavelle says:

12 Oct 2016

Red and I cannot believe your gone. We will miss talking with you especially on super bowl Sunday. We respect the way you lived your life with so much dedication. We miss you already!
john gerada says:

12 Oct 2016

So long to a great guy and a respected brother-in -law.
Pam Lerach and family says:

12 Oct 2016

Jack - You were a shining example of a great way to live life. You were "full of it" and we all knew it! We will miss you greatly and will remember you with only the warmest of memories! Take care and look out for us all!!
Jack and Iris says:

12 Oct 2016

What a Great Guy , Always smiling and great company Will miss you Jack such a Positive Person. I know you are in Heaven watching over Peg . Love Jack and Iris
Mary Medley says:

12 Oct 2016

I have many fond memories of Jack from growing up with Lori...some pretty funny ones too! My heart breaks for the entire family and you will all be in my heart, thoughts and prayers in the coming weeks as I know they will be incredibly difficult.
Ward Case says:

11 Oct 2016

Jack, you knew how to enjoy life and made the most of it. Every Fathers' Day I would think what a great stepdad you have been to Sally and Brenda since their early years. You were a good friend. Rest In Peace.