John F. Eliason
by Rosemary Cummings
It is with sadness Rehoboth Kiwanis Club reports the death of senior member and Past President John F. Eliason, 89, who died June 22. Jack was born in Middletown, DE and graduated from the University of Delaware. His wife Caroline and daughter Anne Withers preceded him in death. His two sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren survive him. Commander Eliason served in the Navy and Navy Reserve, worked with Boy Scouts many years, worked as Director of Manufacturing in the steel industry, and retired to Rehoboth Beach in 1984.
Jack was a model Kiwanian who was active up to the last meeting in June, when the Rehoboth Club recognized him with the Legion of Merit Award for his 25 years of service to the Club and to Kiwanis. Jack served as Secretary, Treasurer, Club President, and Foundation President. Jack was instrumental in overseeing the construction and the expansion of the Kiwanis House on Kent St. A long-time supporter of the Hippotherapy program for students at the Sussex Consortium, as recently as May 5, Jack and Lt. Gov Cummings attended the recognition ceremony to present 20 students with Certificates, Blue Ribbons, and Golden Horseshoes. This project always brought a smile to Jack's face. Jack worked on community service projects such as the annual Crèche project with George Blacklock, as they maintained and restored the Crèche and statuary and the Annual Greening of the Cross until Rehoboth moved the boardwalk bandstand, and cooking for Special Olympics. Jack was a tireless who worked on the Annual 4th of July Parking and the former Rehoboth Kiwanis Auction, a project raising funds for the Foundation to meet community needs for over 50 years. As the Hospitality committee, Jack and Art Pressl attended all meetings and greeted all members and guests.
The Club recognized Jack on many occasions over the years for his exemplary achievements, and in 2006 presented him the highest Award in Kiwanis, the George Hixson Award. All who knew and worked with Jack will miss him.
