Samuel W. McElwee

Penn Yan: Samuel W. McElwee, age 87, of Penn Yan, NY passed away following a short illness on Wednesday December 31, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital, in Rochester, N.Y.

At the request of the family, there are no calling hours; inurnment will be private in Lakeview Cemetery, Penn Yan, NY.

Samuel was born July 16, 1938 in the town of Milo, NY, the son of the late Samuel A. and Esther Ann (Cummings) McElwee Jr.  He grew up helping his father on the family farm.  His experience turned into a lifelong passion for farm equipment.  He was best known for selling and setting up mobile homes being the owner of McElwee Sales & Service, in Penn Yan, NY.  He also did lawn mowing and backhoe work; sold Snapper lawnmowers, Deutz tractors and tools, Steiner tractors and lawn mowers.  “Bill” as he was known by all his friends, loved watching tractor pulls and demolition derbies, he had a liking of Billy goats, and slow dancing.  For years, he traveled to Zephryhills, Florida for part of the winter and enjoyed driving around the area to see friends and how the area was changing. 

Mr. McElwee was a member of several clubs and organizations, including the IH Tractor Club, the Penn Yan Loyal Order of the Moose #2030, the Cushman Motor Cycle Club, the Steam Pageant Association, and the Yates County Fair.  

He is survived by his brother David (Deb) McElwee of Penn Yan; a sister Nancy Hockensmith of Cherry Valley, CA; a foster daughter Esther Wilson of Newman, GA; nieces and nephews, James McElwee, Daniel (Ruth) Hockensmith, Karen Hockensmith, Jeff (Debra) Hockensmith and Joseph Hockensmith; Gregory Nelson, and Laurie Nelson; and his long term helper and friend Sara K. Hansen of Penn Yan. 

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a sister Doris Jean Nelson.

Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee.  Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.