MASSENA - Hugh William McElheran, 86, unexpectedly passed away May 17, 2017 at the St. Regis Nursing Home.

Hugh was born in Massena on April 20, 1931 to George Ray McElheran and Laura J. Campbell McElheran. He is predeceased by his parents and his brother Reginald McElheran and sisters Grace Nitchmann and Laura Ann Sheets.

Hugh is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years June M. Bryant McElheran; daughter Patricia Rockhill (Brian Snider) of Massena, NY; son Daniel McElheran, D.O. of Lewiston, CA; daughter Kathleen (Steven) Chapin of Macedon, NY; grandson Adam (Ashley) Chapin of Newark, NY; grandson Kevin Hugh Chapin of New Haven, CT; great-grandson Blake Chapin of Newark, NY; and his sisters Leta O'Shaughnessy of St. Louis, MO; Betty (James) DeCarr of Massena, Janet Brownell of Massena, and Carol Elias of Massena. Hugh is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Hugh had a love and respect for all of nature's creatures. His beloved dogs Rusty, Pepper and Lucy always carried a very special place in his heart and he missed them dearly.

Hugh graduated from Massena High School in 1951. He was a Korean Conflict veteran, having served in the United States Army from 1952 to 1960, when he was honorably discharged. He graduated from Canton ATC and went on to work at the New York Power Authority, retiring in 1989 after 28 years of dedicated service.

A private graveside service will be held at the Louisville Community Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Massena Humane Society, 177 South Racquette River Rd, Massena, NY 13662 or to the charity of your choice in memory of a dear man who will be greatly missed by his family.