Eric Shawn McElroy

Eric Shawn McElroy, 41, of Manteno, passed away on Saturday, December 2, 2023, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on August 18, 1982, the son of John and Susan McElroy of Gilman. Eric married Jami (Wilken) McElroy in 2005 and together they have three beautiful children, Mason (16), Olivia (12) and Samuel (10). Eric loved his family fiercely and was very proud of his children. He was a valued member of the Manteno community and was always seen with a smile on his face. To say that Eric had a passion for health and fitness would be an understatement. Eric coached and mentored athletes from around the area and helped them strive to be the best versions of themselves. He went above and beyond for his family, friends and clients. His larger-than-life presence will be greatly missed. Besides his wife and children, Eric is survived by his parents, John and Sue McElroy of Gilman; brother, Aron McElroy of Arizona; sister, Laura (Ben) Redenius of Gilman; father and mother-in-law, Mack and Brenda Wilken of Onarga; sister-in-law, Staci Wilken of Manteno; sister-in-law, Kyli Markley of Danforth; brother-in-law, Cody Wilken of Gilman; nieces and nephews, Natalie, Trinity, Cole, Easton and Kolby. He is preceded in death by maternal grandparents Fredrick Thomas and Beverly Harwood; and paternal grandfather Francis McElroy. There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, January 13, from 10:30am-3pm at Gathering Point Church in Bourbonnais, Illinois. A private service for family will be the same day. We would like to encourage those attending the Celebration to wear your favorite Eric-inspired t-shirt and your favorite Nike shoe. #BeCool