John Robert Elliott, 78, Sarasota, died Jan. 14, 2004. He was born Nov. 12, 1924, in Quincy, Ill., and came to Sarasota in 1993 from Miami. He retired as as Army colonel after 32 years of service including World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He was an Episcopalian. Survivors include his wife, Gloria; a daughter, Kristi Rinkus of Chesapeake, Va.; a son, Mark of Sarasota; and five grandchildren. Services and burial will be later in Indianapolis. Palms Funeral Home in Sarasota is in charge. Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of Sarasota County, 2331 15th St., Sarasota, FL 34237.