Sergeant John Edward Elkins returned home to his Heavenly Father on Friday, May 3rd 2024, in the arms of his daughter-in-law, Lauren, with his sons at his side. His fight for life was evident until the end.
John was born on October 26, 1944, in Charlotte, MI, to Edward and Margaret Elkins. In his younger years, John was a great athlete, playing baseball and football. He knew he wanted to serve his country and, at age 19, joined the Marine Corps. He was stationed at Lake Mead Base in Las Vegas, NV. While conducting his basic training, he met, and shortly thereafter, married Coralynn Dunn (later divorced).
John began his active service with the 1st Battalion 9th Marines in 1964, followed by a second active service in 1966 with the 1st Battalion 26th Marines. While in Vietnam in ’66, his unit was surrounded by the enemy and forced to bring in their own artillery. John was wounded by incoming shrapnel and taken to recover in Cameron Bay. He was awarded The Purple Heart while at the hospital.
John continued actively serving for another year, followed by another two inactive years. He had incredible pride for his country and his service. He was rarely seen without a veteran’s hat or a tear in his eye when standing for the national anthem. He never missed an opportunity to salute another service member. OORAH!
John and Cori’s union was blessed with four children, John Jr., in 1967, Karen Mary Suzanne “Suzie” in 1968, Robert in 1970, and James “Jim” in 1971. His children were the source of his greatest pride and joy. A passionate outdoorsman, he found solace in hunting and fishing. Yet, his true happiness was found in the company of his children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a testament to the love and warmth he shared with his family.
John was a tilt-up construction specialist. He spent 30+ years coordinating and supervising the construction of concrete wall buildings. Some of his projects included Sportsman’s Warehouse, Nabisco, and Costco among many others. His commitment to his trade and attention to detail, combined with his demand for absolute safety first from all involved, made John the best at what he did.
John is survived by his sister, Annie (Ted) Carmoney, his three sons, John Elkins, Jr. (Brenda), Rob Elkins (Lauren Reaveley), Jim Elkins (Karen); grandchildren, Ashley Cutler Metz, Andrew Metz, Bryce Cutler (Carissa), Kolton Cutler (Chanelle), James Elkins, Robbie Elkins (Ana), John Elkins III, Valencia Elkins, Tytus Reaveley, Pyper Reaveley, and Radley Powell; great-grandchildren, Skkyler Cutler, Dreyvin Cutler, Paizley Metz, Fabian Tanpirak, Adayah Elkins, Jaaziel Elkins, and Jaylee Elkins.
John is reunited with his parents, sister, Patsy; and beloved daughter, Suzie.
The family would like to thank the George E. Wahlen Veterans Hospital in SLC, UT, a staple in John’s life, as well as extend a very special thank you to CNS in Price, UT.
Funeral service, Saturday, May 11, 2024, 10:00 a.m., Mitchell Funeral Home (233 East Main St. Price, Utah) where the family will receive friends Friday, May 10th from 6-7:00 p.m. and Saturday morning one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Cliffview Cemetery in Price. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends and family are always welcome daily and may share memories of John online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.