Dennis James McElwain

CMSGT Dennis {Mac} James McElwain, age 83, of Sun City, Arizona, passed on Tuesday, September 29th, 2020. He was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania to Henry and Catherine (Kuntzwhiler) McElwain on May 16, 1937. He was a 24-year retiree from the US Airforce reaching the rank of E9 Chief Master Sergeant.

Mac loved the Air Force and was dedicated to serving his country. His nickname “Mr. Air Force” fit him perfectly and his dedication, honesty, perseverance and outstanding work ethics that he exemplified during his military service also followed him throughout his retirement years. He loved the United States of America and his years in the military were a dream come true for a kid from Pennsylvania who wanted nothing more than to become all that he could be.

Mac’s service in the Air Force was a dream job that not only supported his family but allowed him to work at a job that he loved. His title of Aircraft Maintenance Manager earned him several awards and medals.

Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Services Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal w/2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Good Conduct Medal w/4 Bronze Loops, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, NCO Academy Graduate Ribbon w/1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Conduct Medal w/1 Bronze Loop, Air force USAF Senior NCO Academy, Longevity Service Ribbon w/4 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award w/ 5 Oak Leaf Clusters

After leaving the military Mac enjoyed laying tile for several years. He then started working in 1995 for Sun Health and Roscamp as a Maintenance Engineer overseeing the Medical Buildings and properties surrounding the Campuses of Del E. Webb and Boswell Hospitals. Mac retired from that position in 2010 after 15 years of a job he loved.

Mac volunteered for the Maricopa Sun City Posse from April 2010 to April 2015. He enjoyed once again helping people and being of service. He served several positions in the Posse spending hours helping whenever needed.

Mac is survived by his daughter Kelly Depersio/Spouse Chris and son Dennis Jr with 1st wife Patricia.

Spouse Susan – Stepchildren Troy Nelson/Spouse Lynne, Bonice Jensen/Spouse Brett, Jason Nelson/Spouse Aimee, Lance Nelson/Spouse Sarah and 11 Grandchildren.

His funeral with Military honors will be at Sunland Mortuary prior to his burial at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.