A Veteran's Last Request

What began as an unusual request became an unforgettable conversation. Stephen Jelinek, a nomadic Air Force veteran who lives and travels full-time in his truck, wanted to prepare for something most people spend their lives avoiding: his own final arrangements. Not wanting to be cremated, Stephen asked if a simple wooden casket could be built to fit inside his truck—serving as both a storage chest during his travels and, someday, his final resting place. As the project takes shape, the conversation moves far beyond woodworking. It explores military service, green burials, funeral planning, faith, mortality, what happens when someone dies without family nearby, and the practical realities of living a life on the road. Along the way, there's plenty of humor, honest reflection, and the kind of friendship that makes even life's most difficult subjects easier to talk about. Whether you're interested in woodworking, funeral traditions, veterans' stories, or simply appreciate meaningful conversations, this is a story that will leave you thinking long after the project is finished. Learn all about America's Storyteller on his website: https://www.ilikethatstory.com #JeffGould #AmericasStoryteller #StephenJelinek #Veteran #Woodworking #Casket #GreenBurial #Nomad #VanLife #LifeOnTheRoad #Storytelling #LifeLessons #Faith ____ Buy Jeff's books, CD, and audio book: https://www.ilikethatstory.net/shop Get urgent one-on-one coaching with Jeff now: https://calendly.com/jeffjgould Connect with Jeff on social media: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jeffgould LinkedIn: / jeff-gould-americas-storyteller Twitter/X: https://x.com/jeffgouldstory Instagram: / jeffgouldilikethatstory Facebook: / jeffgouldilikethatstory For booking, contact: Email: [email protected] Phone: (605) 215-6414 or https://www.ilikethatstory.net/contact Send business/sponsorship inquiries to [email protected] © Jeff Gould, America's Storyteller This video is not to be reproduced without prior authorization. The original YouTube video may be distributed & embedded, if required. Callers waive all rights to privacy on this public call in show. If you need private coaching, pay for and book a call at https://www.ilikethatstory.com