Obituary of Louis McElhiney

HOPEWELL-Louis Patrick McElhiney, age 73, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, highly-respected business professional, and, friend to many, passed on Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018, in Peoria, IL. Pat was born in 1944 to Clement and Marjorie McElhiney. He and his 11 siblings were raised in Avon, IL. Pat excelled in both academics and in numerous sports at Avon High School, from where he graduated as class salutatorian in 1963. Pat answered when called to serve his country during the Vietnam conflict. He served in the Army from 1966 to 1968. He married Bonnie in 1968. To create a better life for his wife and two young children, Pat worked full-time in steel fabrication, while a full-time student at Illinois State University. He graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Accounting in 1976. Pat, a CPA, was employed in public accounting for 42 years, last working on Friday, Sept. 28. He was a longtime member of the Rotary Club, and, donated much time and services to local non-profit agencies. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Bonnie, son Patrick, daughter Kassandra and granddaughter Odessa. He is also survived by brothers Mike, Dennis, Kerry, Tim and Darryn, and sisters Kate and Shannon. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Kelly and Terry, and sisters Jo Etta and Kristine. In his spare time, Pat enjoyed woodworking, being outdoors, and, walking his beloved beagle, Buddy. Pat was a selfless, kind man, and will be greatly-missed by everyone whose lives he touched. Cremation has been accorded. A visitation will be held on Friday, October 12, 2018 from 5-7 p.m., at Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital or the A.R.K. in Lacon, IL. Pat’s online memorial website may be viewed at www.weberhurdfuneralhome.com