Michael Bryan McElwee, 45, of Hardin, MO, passed away peacefully in his sleep the morning of April 24th, 2026 in Kearney, MO.
Mike was born on October 20th, 1980 in Salida, CO to the late Steven O. McElwee and Linda B. (Pauley McElwee) Strain.
Mike was a graduate of Orrick High School before joining the United States Marine Corps. After serving his country, Mike served his community as the Assistant Chief of Hardin Fire Protection District.
You would often find Mike reading in his downtime when he wasn’t thinking up pranks to pull. His love of nature would often lead him to go fishing and hiking. He loved to brag that he was the best fisherman only to watch his mom and brother outfish him.
Mike was preceded in death by his father Steve McElwee; Grandparents George and Creo McElwee, LaVerne and Loretta Pauley, and GG Strain; Aunts Amy Walker and Rita McElwee; Uncles Elwyn Greer, Ben Woody, and Bill McElwee.
Mike is survived by his mother Linda and Bonus Dad Bret Strain of Hardin, MO; his daughters Trinity Taylor of Parksley, VA, and Shelbie McElwee of Flemming, MO; His brother Jeff (Laura) McElwee and their children Stephanie, Kierstin, Michael, and Joseph McElwee of Orrick, MO; His Bonus Children Mahayla (Michael) Lane, Maria (Jordan) Engle, and Gavin Wood with his ex-wife Angel McDermed, all of Independance, MO; his companion Jodi Hague and her children of Kearney, MO; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion/ VFW in Richmond, MO, on Friday, May 8th from 5:30 to 9 pm. Inurnment will be held on Friday May 15th at 11 am at the Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, MO In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Til Valhalla Project supporting the mental health of Military and First Responders.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion/ VFW in Richmond, MO, on Friday, May 8th from 5:30 to 9 pm. Inurnment will be held on Friday May 15th at 11 am at the Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, MO
Source: KMZU, The Farm
