Elton A Jodoin

Elton A Jodoin, 92 ,of the Pellerin Rd, Plattsburgh passed away with his loving family by his side on February 4,2024 . He was born on August 19, 1931 in Norwich, CT to Uldric and Arcelia Jodoin of Jewett City, CT. Elton graduated from St. Mary’s Grammar School in 1945. He spent the first year of high school at a Franciscan Seminary in Calicoon, NY. The last three years were spent at Griswold High School. He earned varsity letters in football, basketball, baseball and track. His effort in sports took up much more time that his academic achievements pursuits. He attended Eastern CT State in Willamantic for two years and won varsity letters. He spent the winter season playing on town team basketball leagues which were popular in New England. Once again his academic achievements weren’t a priority. Off to the Army he went in 1951. He was in the 25th Infantry and served in the Korean War. He served a year in combat and was awarded Three Bronze Stars for Bravery Under Fire. Upon his discharge from the Army Elton was lucky enough to have the President of Eastern CT College in order not to put up with him again got him admitted to Springfield College in the Physical Education Program. He was able to complete his studies, do his student teaching and coach JV football in Windham, CT. He graduated in 1956. Before graduating Elton married Mary Monahan. He had three job offers after graduating in January. Of course, as we know he chose Beekmantown with no regrets. At that time the district consisted of one room schools, the West Chazy building and the bus garage. Mary and Elton settled in West Chazy and had their three children there. Mary predeceased Elton. Elton started teaching and coaching in 1957. He was Beekmantown’s first football and basketball team coach. He was also active in recruiting the first water polo team. His phy ed classes were always a popular place. His enthusiasm, creativity and sense of humor seemed to liven every activity. When his basketball team won the Class A Title in 1961 it was the first sectional championship for the Eagles in any sport. Elton was also the baseball coach for many years and is remembered for his signs for stealing that confused many opposing coaches. He also coached wrestling for two years and helped collect oars for the rowing team. Elton spent several years as President of Section 7’s Class A Basketball League. After retiring he was a timer at sectional and regional basketball games. Elton retired from teaching in 1987 but was a frequent substitute teacher until his election to the school board in 1999. While at Beekmantown he was very active in NYSUT being president of the union twice as well as representing the school at many conventions. He was also often involved with negotiations between the NYSUT and the Board Of Education. While on the board he also negotiated for them and the mediator was amazed to see someone who had sat at both sides of the table. He was honored to be inducted into the Honor Society with Bob Dailey.He was also so honored to be inducted into Beekmantown’s Hall of Fame in 2022. Elton was a jokester and was roasted by his friends and colleagues when he retired.Everyone had a story to tell of a trick he had played on them or someone else. His stories continue to circulate throughout the North Country. Mr. Jodoin was also an avid golfer who never had a lesson. That fact was evident to anyone who saw him swing a club. He was a member at Hemmingford Country Club and most recently at North Country. His goal was to golf in all 50 states which he accomplished in 2017 by playing in Hawaii. Elton also was a softball pitcher for many years. He played for a variety of teams in West Plattsburgh and played for the International League in Champlain in the 60s. His last league he played in was the over 55 where he played with his teaching colleagues. At that point he was in his 70s. Obviously you can tell he loved the sport. As one of Elton’s friend’s recently said, “He was one in a million!” He is survived by his best friend and wife of 45 years, Valerie Jean, his daughter, Cathy Downs(Kevin),two sons, Michael Jodoin(Lisa) and Alan Jodoin(Lisa). Also left to cherish his memory are seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, three sisters-in-laws, three brothers-in-law and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to North Country Honor Flight PO Box 2644 Plattsburgh, NY 12901 or B and K Christmas Elves 88 Banker Rd. Morrisonville, NY 12962 Funeral arrangements are in the hands of Brown’s Funeral Home. Calling hours will be on Wednesday February 7th from 11:00am to 1:00pm. A funeral will follow at the end of the calling hours. Burial will take place in the spring with a Celebration of Life to follow.