Wilbert R. Mcelroy

U.S. Veteran Wilbert Rogene (Gene) McElroy, of Las Cruces, New Mexico went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Oct 20th 2007. Gene was born in Dallas Texas on December 1st, 1943, the second son of Gaylon R.McElroy and Lorene B. McElroy. His older brother Gerald G.McElroy went home to meet his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in 1995. Younger brother, George Michael (Mike) McElroy and Mother, Lorene are here to celebrate Gene's life, along with his sons, Brendon, Ryan and Gaylon. Gene grew up in Texas and after his schooling, joined the U.S. Army and served in Germany. When discharged he returned to his family who had moved to Silver City, NM. Gene joined his father working at the mill in Hurley, NM. When that phase of construction ended he relocated to Washington State. There he met the love of his life, and was blessed with his three sons. Gene was a heavy equipme nt mechanic and welder. He worked out of Local 302 Operating Engineers for over 30 years. He spent almost 3 years in Alaska working on the Trans Alaskan pipeline. He loved to create artwork utilizing his welding talents with copper and other types of metal. Gene's knowledge of mechanics and welding was also put to use helping his brother build street rods. Gene had a wonderful dry sense of humor and a quick wit that served him well. Barbara McElroy, Mike's wife, spent years hearing tall tales told by the brothers of days gone by with love and understanding, and served as referee when memories faded. Gene retired to Las Cruces where He enjoyed spending time with his Uncle and Aunt, Bud and Margie Benton. Gene was a master at telling a good story; some might even say he would stretch the truth a wee bit (the Irish are good at that). Gene was very private to most and kept to himself, but if you were lucky enough to spend some time with him, he would share stories with you about his s o ns, his work, and old relations he knew. Gene is also survived by his Stepfather, Galen Lindsey, Son Brenden Rogene McElroy wife Sarah Kellegrew McElroy granddaughter Kelley Ayn McElroy Son Ryan Christopher McElroy wife Laura Artemis McElroy grandson Thomas Loiselle McElroy son Galen Charles McElroy granddaughter Ashley May McElroy, and remembered lovingly by all of his Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces, and Nephews. A celebration of Gene's life will be held Monday, October 29th 2007 at 2pm in the Getz Funeral Home Chapel. The US Army will provide military honors. PDF Printable Version