Bissell Eugene Mc Elyea

Major Bissell Eugene “Mac” McElyea came from humble beginnings. He was born in Berryville, Arkansas on December 10, 1919 on the homestead land that had originally belonged to his great aunt. He had to quit school at an early age to help raise his younger brother and sister. He did manage to finish high school through trade school. He was one of the first draftees for World War II from Kansas City, Missouri. He was a flight instructor throughout the war being stationed in Texas and Colorado. He was trained on various types of aircrafts during his air force career, but his favorite was the helicopter. He retired from the Air Force and started a new career as a civilian working for the Army. He flew and tested helicopters for Raytheon. He received many awards and citations during his long career. He loved people, but perhaps what he will best be remembered for is his ability to tell jokes and sing ditties. He was preceded in death by his parents Lutie Irvin and Earl McElyea and his wives Alberta “Wally” McElyea and Mary McElyea. He is survived by his brother Lorus McElyea, sister Kathryn Robertson, children Daniel McElyea and Lee Scruggs, grandchildren Cheryl White, Cyndi Rust and Kathy Mavencamp, and his great grandchildren Katrina White, Joey White, Mia Rust. He lived a long and very fulfilling life. He will be missed by his family.

The visitation and funeral will take place at Greenwood Mortuary located at 4300 Imperial Ave. San Diego, California 92113. The visitation will be from 5-8pm on Wednesday, December 11th 2013. The funeral will be held at 11 am on Thursday, December 12th 2013.

In lieu of flower, please donate to your favorite charity in his name.