John Edward McElwee 72, Seminole, FL. Born Oct. 9, 1940, passed Nov. 19, 2012. A promising hockey career was unexpectedly cut short this week. The youngest of 6 children, John was born in Dearborn, MI. He attended Sacred Heart High School where he captained both the football and baseball teams. His love of hockey grew while playing and coaching in the Detroit area for many years, often shuttling kids to and from the rink in his VW bus. His three sons, John, Matt and Mark, enjoyed John's time and effort the most. He is the founder of the Olde Michiganders hockey team, which traveled each year to Florida for tournament play. He was persuaded by these trips to make Florida his home. John skated regularly in Clearwater and coached new players, including his wife, Vicki, introducing them to the game he loved. His sense of humor was rivaled only by his good looks. He enjoyed visits with his three grandchildren, Chrissie, Pat and Eleanor, both in Florida and at their home in Michigan. He showed his usual great hustle even in his final game last week, assisting on a goal on his final shift in a 3-2 victory. Family and friends are invited to Clearwater Ice Arena on Friday, Nov. 23 between 3-6 pm, to celebrate his illustrious career. Another celebration in the Detroit area is planned. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society , the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, or to a charity of your choice . David C. Gross Funeral Homes, Central Avenue Chapel in St. Petersburg is serving the family. Service Information