Elkin Villegas-Rendon

Elkin Villegas-Rendon, 71, of Woodstock, Ga passed away Saturday, January 2nd, 2021. He was born in Florencia, Colombia S.A. on October 23, 1949. Elkin was preceded in death by his mother Edelmira Rendon-Payne, his father Alberto Villegas Lopera and his beloved dogs, Leon and ChaCha.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Nadine Villegas. His children Michael Elkin Villegas, Carmen (Chris) Cunningham, Jason (Roseann) Villegas, Samantha Villegas and Rafael Seprun.

Grandchildren Vanessa Villegas, Melissa Villegas, Khari Villegas, JJ Cunningham, Dallas Cunningham, Lindsey Cunningham, Joey Simmons, Jason Elkin Villegas, Ava Villegas, John Michael Vazquez Torres, Miguel Elkin Vazquez, Cristian Vazquez and a grandchild due in July 2021.

Great-grandchildren Alexander Abernathy and Jackson Hendrix.

Elkin was self employed for most of his life. He owned his own auto repair shop, E&N Auto Repair, for 20+ years, where he earned the nickname “Chico”, before transitioning to refrigeration and restaurant equipment. A company he formed with his sons called EJ Coolers. Elkins love of mechanics and technology paved the way for the many endeavors and friendships he formed throughout his lifetime. Elkin graduated high school in Colombia, S.A. before coming to the United States at the age of 23 to attend college in Warm Springs, Ga., and then moved to Gainesville, Ga. where he met the one and only love of his life, Nadine.

Elkin loved to entertain. His front door was never locked and he embraced company. He loved to cook, make homemade wine and secret seasonings. He always had a new recipe or invention ready to try once you walked through the door. He loved conversation and heated debate even more.

Elkin had the most giving and generous heart. He would quite literally give you the shirt off of his back and would help anyone in need no matter the circumstance. The word “no” was not in his vocabulary.

In 2004, Elkin was diagnosed with kidney failure and received a kidney transplant from an anonymous donor. Elkin’s drive and motivation was an inspiration to all who knew him. Through all of the medical challenges he faced, he stayed as active as possible. He had the strongest will to live and his spirit was never broken.

The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming, and the family extends their sincere gratitude to everyone who has reached out upon learning the heartbreaking news. Elkin’s legacy will live on through all who knew and loved him. The void and grief runs deep, but the stories and memories shared bring peace and comfort and shows the impact Elkin had on so many.