JAMES "JIM" HOWARD ELKIN

James "Jim" Howard Elkin of Shelocta, PA (Plumcreek Twp.) died Monday May 16, 2011 at home with his loving family and friends.

He was born July 23, 1934 on a farm close to Smicksburg, PA on July 23, 1934 the son of James Elmer and Ruth (Alcorn) Elkin.

He was a retired Staff Sargent with the US Air Force, Member and past commander of VFW Post 6555 Sagamore, PA. He was a member with the Keystone Sportsman Club, Atwood PA. He enjoyed the outdoors and has traveled around the world while serving his country and enjoying hunting and fishing when able. He was a great sports fan, Pirates, Steelers, Pens, but local softball was his greatest pastime, Delpra's, Silver Dollar & Tailgaters.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary C. (Thomey) Elkin, his parents, sister Helen Borrows, and brother Blaine Elkin.

He is survived by his children Linda Saxfield and husband Jerry of Plumville, PA and Jay Elkin and wife Pat of Shelocta PA; Grandchildren - Chad, Staci & Chubby , Jerry & Kristy, Ryan & Alicia Saxfield, Shawnee & Nick Armstrong, Jason & Kelly and Justin & Kristin Elkin, Erin & JR Lipsie and Johnny & Melissa Gbur; Nieces Kay Brink and Linda Bradford and their families. He is also survived by 21 great grandchildren.

Friends will be received at the Carson/Boyer Funeral Home, Inc., 724 Main St. Rural Valley, Pa on Tuesday May 17, 2011 from 7-9 PM and on Wednesday May 18, 2011 from 2-4 & 7-9. A Blessing Service will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday in the Funeral Home with Fr. Daniel Blout officiating.

Interment will be in the North Point Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial Contributions in lieu of flowers, can be made to Three Rivers Hospice Patient Care Fund, 1195 Jacks Run Rd., N. Versailles, PA 15137.