John Chelstrom was born September 20, 1935 in Park Rapids, Minnesota. He grew up in Moorhead, Minnesota, graduating from High School in 1953.
In June 1953 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Basic training was at MCRD San Diego. Advanced training at Camp Pendleton followed prior to being assigned to the 1st Marine Division in Korea. After his tour in Korea he was stationed in San Francisco until leaving active duty.
In February 1957 he left the Marines and enlisted in the USAF as an accounting specialist and was stationed at Little Rock AFB. In December 1959 John was selected for Officer Candidate School at Lackland AFB, TX. Commissioned a Second Lt. in June 1960 he was assigned as an Accounting & Finance Officer at Wright Patterson AFB, OH.
Subsequent assignments were as Accounting and Finance Officer with the Air Force Security Service in Taiwan. This was followed by an assignment as an Auditor at the Air Force Accounting and Finance Center, Denver CO. He was then assigned as a base Comptroller with the Air Force Security Service in Japan. In 1972 he returned to the Air Force Auditor Generals office at SAC HQ in Omaha NE where he served until 1974 retiring as a Major.
John spent 3 years building homes in Utah as an office manager. He then lived in Tucson AZ until 1986 when HP Books (He was the General Manager) was sold to a publishing company in California. Then there were 5 years in Texas before moving to Bella Vista in January 1992.
Up to now he has been active in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks serving as Treasurer for 2 years, a trustee for 3 years, Chair Officer and President for 2 years and a year as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler for the Arkansas West District.
After being widowed in 2001, John married Shirley in 2002. They live in the Highlands area of Bella Vista and are active members of Bella Vista Christian Church. Besides volunteering, John has many interests including old and sporty cars and is a model railroad enthusiast.