They Proudly Served

Daniel P Elissalde Sr.
Beloved Father, Son, Brother, Friends
December 26, 1960-November 14, 2025

By Linda Elissalde
Our son Daniel P Elissalde Sr. served his country as a member of the Army Special Forces. He was an army ranger and army medic. His intelligence, computer skills, bravery and gifted ability with languages especially Spanish and Mandarin Chinese served him well throughout his career. He also was an excellent martial arts instructor and wrote many training manuals. Daniel helped his friends after he left the Army. His family included not only his relatives, but many who became family because of serving with him. He passed away from battling illnesses developed after his retirement.

Daniel was buried in Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, New York on May 29, 2026. He received a full military funeral because of his commitment to his country. After rifle volleys were fired,Taps played, three spent shell casings were placed into the folded American flag and presented to Daniel (Danny) P. Elissalde, Jr. Danny now serves in the the United States Army. Attending family members included Deborah Kozlowski, sister Kitty and husband Dale Owens, Father Marcel and Linda C Elissalde. Former Army buddy Chris Stevens shared his gratitude for Daniel’s help and guidance. Other attendees included Iman Qazi, Margaret Massad, Roger Shenk and his wife, and one of Daniel’s students, Tony Carey, who rode hundreds of miles on his motorcycle to honor him. The group then drove to Daniel’s burial place among other honored soldiers. Danny’s mom Deborah provided a place where attendees gathered for lunch. Everyone shared some happy or entertaining stories of times spent with Daniel Sr.

May 29, 2026 was a day of remembrance, sadness and gratitude for one who had played a vital part in each person’s life. Daniel P Elissalde Sr. has now found peace among those who, like he, had also proudly served.

Sargent John William Pope, Jr.
In Loving Remembrance
Husband, Family, Marine, Friends
December 21, 1945 – May 24, 2026

My wonderful friendship with Sharon Pope began in 1967. Actually I was gifted with a double dip of friendship when she AND her husband became two lifelong companions. For 58 years we shared adventures, laughter and sorrows. John was an amazingly loyal and brave friend. I am, like his family and many friends, indeed grateful.

Remembering John
By His sister Shirley Tinnin

John William Pope Jr., of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 80, after a courageous battle with health issues, on May 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and love. Born on December 21, 1045, in Newnan, Georgia, to John William Pope Sr. and Gwendolyn Pope, he lived a long and fulfilling life, filled with purpose and passion.

With a heart full of adventure, John enjoyed many exciting experiences, including hunting fishing, skiing on the river, and taking trips to Mexico. He had a deep love for the beach and resided in Crystal Beach, Texas, where he found solace and peace.

In October 1965, John joined the Marine Corps, becoming a sharpshooter and demonstrating his unwavering commitment to serving his country. Even after leaving the military, he remained a dedicated American, always standing behind service men and women. John’s life was a testament to the power of love and commitment as he met his wife, Sharon in Alvin, Texas, and married her on May 11, 1967. Together they celebrated 59 incredible years of marriage, a true inspiration to all who knew them. As a successful entrepreneur, John owned several mechanic shops and Pope’s Painting Service, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

John is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Pope, sister Shirley Tinnin and husband Dale Tinnin, brother Billy Pope and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, John William Pope Sr., mother, Gwendolyn Pope, sister, Gladys Aden, and sister, Lois Ann Haag. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

John’s graveside funeral was held at Woodlawn Garden of Memories. He was honored with a military service. Two Marines carefully folded the American flag after gun salutes and playing of Taps. It was then presented to John’s wife Sharon Pope. Family and friends will always remember and be grateful to Sargent John William Pope as a man who proudly served his country.

Linda

I was born on February 14, 1941 into a family of writers. Schmuckers took pen in hand for thank you notes, news articles, lessons, plays, poetry, birthdays, eulogies, etc. Aquarius prediction in my diary stated, “Has some writing abilities, but too superficial to be important”. Thanks to all who accept my compositions anyway. I come from a family of writers.

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