The Manteno community is grieving the loss of Eric McElroy, a beloved resident and Anatomy Physical Fitness Coach, who passed away after a courageous battle with leukemia. Eric’s impact extended beyond his role as a fitness coach; he was a devoted husband, caring father, and a friend to many.
In a poignant social media post, Eric’s wife, Jami Wilken McElroy, shared the heartbreaking news of his passing. She expressed the profound impact of Eric’s departure, noting that their lives are forever changed, and a void now exists that can never be filled. Jami held Eric’s hand as he took his last breath, and the family faces the challenging journey of navigating life without his presence.
Eric McElroy faced a relentless battle against leukemia, a form of cancer that took a toll on his health. His journey was marked by challenges, including significant swelling and pain in his legs. Despite the efforts to diagnose and address the issue, the cause of the swelling remained elusive. The community rallied around Eric and his family as they confronted the complexities of his health condition.
A native of Bradley, Illinois, Eric attended Iroquois West High School and furthered his education at Kankakee Community College. He made a significant impact as an employee at Life Time Orland Park, where his expertise in holistic pain management and postural alignment garnered recognition.
Zach Jenkins shared a post on fb:
Eric,Where do I even begin. You did it brother, you kicked cancers ass. You are now mine and everyone else’s guardian angel. As many of you know back in 2021 my life was flipped upside down when I received the shocking news I had cancer. Upon arriving at Northwestern, I stumbled upon Eric in the halls. We made small talk and he could tell the fear I had as I was trying to process hearing words I never thought I would hear. As I was about to go back into my room he said “I am going to be knocking at your day everyday asking if you want to walk.” I didn’t think I would ever see him again after that brief interaction but I couldn’t have been more wrong. We would walk the halls everyday doing miles at a time, talking about life and what we were going to do when we beat this nasty disease. Eric you came into my life when it was flipped upside down.
You taught me how to have courage even in the hardest of times, how to never back down, be the ultimate fighter and face your fears without worry. You helped turn a negative situation into a positive one and showed me how to always help others even in the darkest of times. You are the definition of an ultimate champion and it was an absolute privilege I got to call you my friend and brother. I will miss you everyday but I am so damn proud of you. I know you will be my guardian angel helping me beat this awful disease. I love you brother🧡 Eric McElroy Jami Wilken McElroy
As a devoted husband to Jami since 2005, Eric’s commitment to family formed the cornerstone of his life. He leaves behind three cherished children and a legacy of love and dedication. Beyond his familial roles, Eric’s influence reached the broader community, where he was known for his friendly demeanor and genuine interest in others.
Inspired by Strength Sensei, Eric McElroy offered one of the most effective postural correction and soft tissue therapy programs in the Midwest. His passion for fitness and holistic wellness touched the lives of those he coached and mentored.
As Manteno mourns the loss of Eric McElroy, the community honors his memory and the positive impact he had on the lives of many. Thoughts and condolences are extended to his family, friends, and those who were fortunate to know him. Funeral arrangements and further details will likely be communicated in the coming days.
May Eric McElroy rest in peace, and may his legacy of wellness and compassion endure.
