John C. Elko

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 50 years, Cindy Malinchak Elko of North Myrtle Beach; his three grandchildren, Hayley Elyce Bilko and Lyla Carolann Griffin of Surfside Beach, SC, and John Michael Elko of Carbondale, PA; and his sister Jacqueline and her husband John Sokoloski of Lewiston, NY; as well as nieces and nephews.

Born on July 19th, 1955, John grew up in Avoca, PA. He was a hard working man with a heart of gold, always the first to lend a hand any friend, family member, or neighbor in need. He always found joy in life’s simple pleasures such as days at the beach, golf cart rides, and joining friends for karaoke night. John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, but he refused to let that define him. When he could no longer work, he repurposed his life in new ways, finding meaning in everyday acts of love and support.

He was his wife’s constant companion through every hardship they endured and every fun adventure they went on as well. Many of his children’s friends viewed him as a second father. To his grandchildren he was a pillar of strength, providing emotional support through life’s ups and downs. His eldest granddaughter viewed him like a father as well, as he was there for every driving test, flat tire, and move-in day throughout her adolescence. Alongside being such a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John also developed a deep affection for cats, starting with his granddaughter’s childhood pets: Purry and Precious. Over the years, many cats found their way to him and Cindy, and they rescued them all. These cats especially always loved John, often all trying to fit on his lap at once.

To know John was to love him. Through all that he faced, he kept smiling, kept helping, and continued to show up with kindness.

He is preceded in death by parents, John and Dorothy Elko, as well as his two beautiful children, Ashley Elizabeth Elko Griffin and John Louis Elko. Losing both of his children was the most unimaginable heartbreak, but John kept going, fueled by the immense love he had for his wife and grandchildren. God has called him home now, where he is no longer suffering and is reunited with his parents, his children, and all of the cats who adored him.

A celebration of life will be held at the neighborhood clubhouse in Shadow Moss Place in North Myrtle Beach, SC on Sunday, July 20th from 1:00pm-3:00pm. John was deeply loved and valued by his community, so much so that his birthday (July 19th) was named “John Elko Day” by his neighbors. This gathering will be a chance to honor and remember him in a way that he would’ve truly appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Kind Keeper Animal Rescue, located at 1500 LD Dr, North Myrtle Beach, SC, 29582. The family would also like to give a special thank you to Amedisys Hospice for all of their care and support.