John Elderton

On December 4th, 2021, John W. Elderton, 69 of Pawnee, IL, was finally able to breathe again. After more than thirty years of battling COPD, his struggles were over. Surrounded by his wife and daughters, John found peace.

Knowing John was definitely an adventure. If you knew him--truly knew him, you would know that if he was passionate about something he would jump in with both feet. When it came to ceramics: molding, cleaning, firing, painting in great detail, and firing again was the only way to do it right. He was hands on from start to finish. Selling his beautiful pieces at flea markets back in the day brought a following, especially for his Santa Claus pieces. He played softball for years and trained his girls in the same 'all in' mind set. "Pain is pleasure." Golfing was another way he spent his free time, whether it was 18 holes with the guys on the weekend or 'going fishing' on his way home from work. Over the years, John's vegetable garden grew smaller, but he loved heirloom tomatoes. Those he couldn't give up.

John was a letter carrier for the US Postal Service in Bloomington-Normal for 35 years.

John is survived by the best thing that ever happened to him. His high-school sweetheart that got away but they found their way back later in life. His wife of 36 years, Deborah. John is survived by Michelle, his favorite daughter who always cares for everyone in the house, who always finds her way home, and who always made him laugh. John is survived by Melissa, his favorite daughter who always matched his wit, who always stands up for herself and those around her, and who shares his passion to play ball. John is survived by Megan, his favorite daughter who always sent home-cooked meals and who tries to grow vegetables in her weed garden. John is survived by seven grandchildren - Michael, Emilee, Braden, Zach, Raelyn, Ellianna, and Ryker- that he was so proud of. Papa was in awe constantly of their creativity, smarts, and personalities. And, boy, did he love getting hugs. John was blessed with a stepdaughter, stepson, and three bonus grandchildren, Reid, Carter, and Norah. John is survived by an older sister, Susan, and two younger brothers, David and Jim.

Private family graveside services will be held. A social for friends and family at the VFW in Bloomington will be held April 9, 2022 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to share stories, see photos, and listen to music while enjoying company and food.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ASPCA as John's six shih-tzus were his babies or the American Cancer Association.

"I've walked through the halls of Karma.

I shook hands with both the Devil and God.

They turned my eyes to the inside to see

Where my energies have gone.

Yes, I've run with both all through my life.

I've respected and reflected them both.

Yes, the sympathy of God as he looked at my life.

The excitement of the Devil as we talked.

So Lord, have mercy.

Lord, have mercy on my soul."

-Jim Dandy, Black Oak Arkansas