* Howard McElroy; Retired Business Owner

Retired business owner Howard V. McElroy died at his home in Ventura after a lengthy illness. He was 74.

McElroy, who died Thursday, was born March 11, 1926, in Hackensack, N.J., and moved to Ventura County from La Canada Flintridge 15 years ago.

McElroy served in the Navy throughout World War II. His family said he received many medals and commendations, including the Presidential Unit Citation for his efforts at Normandy.

McElroy, described as very patriotic and proud of his military service, was presented with a flag by U.S. Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley) that had flown over the U.S. Capitol in Washington.

McElroy owned and operated travel agencies in Southern California and retired in 1988. He was a member of the Tourism Commission in Ventura, and a member of the Saticoy Country Club. He also served on its board.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Marlene McElroy of Ventura; three sons, David McElroy of Visalia, Kent Wyatt of Danville and Tom McElroy of Ventura; two daughters, Lynn Rivier of Hinsdale, Ill., and Allison Parks of Tacoma, Wash.; and nine grandchildren.

There will be a memorial service at 11 a.m. Monday at Ted Mayr Funeral Home in Ventura, with the Rev. Al Gorsline of Oxnard St. Paul’s Methodist Church officiating and the U.S. Naval Honor Guard participating.

Burial will occur at a later date at Los Angeles National Cemetery.

In McElroy’s memory, the family asks for donations of blood or contributions to the Ventura County Community Blood Program at United Blood Services in Ventura. Donations should be addressed to 1756 E. Ave., Ventura 93004, and noted to the attention of Carolyn Turner.