With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Alfred James "Jim" Elliott, age 83, of Hudsonville (formerly of Kalamazoo), who passed away in Grand Rapids on December 14, 2024. Born in Clare, MI on January 21, 1941, to Alfred James Elliott, Sr. and Ida Melissa Babcock Elliott, Jim was a farm boy and hard worker from the start. Jim graduated from Clare High School and finished a semester at Ferris State, but found his love in the skilled trades.

Jim completed an apprenticeship to lay carpet, started his own carpet business out of the trunk of his car, worked for Sears, and - with his wife, Dee - opened and ran Elliott's Carpeting and Draperies in Grand Ledge and Lansing for 20+ years. He and Dee then had their only child, and Jim soon went to work for the State of MI / DNR Fisheries in Kalamazoo, where he retired after another 20 years.

Jim prided himself on his ability to fix anything. In addition to tinkering with his tools, Jim was passionate about skiing, golf, and Notre Dame football, and always found joy in spending time with his family or striking up a conversation with a stranger on the topic of... just about anything.

He spent the last couple of years being closer to his daughter's family, since they moved back to Michigan from Seattle. His granddaughter Claire will remember the way he always greeted her with a big hug and kiss and by saying, "Hey, Baby Girl!!" Grandson Kyle will get his Bompa's tools someday soon, to remember him by. Though he is gone, Jim's spirit will live on in the memories of his family and friends.

Jim was a devoted husband of 50 years to Daneen "Dee" (Eva) Elliott (deceased), a loving father to Katie (Elliott) Krauss, father-in-law to Carl Krauss, and a cherished grandfather to Claire and Kyle Krauss. He leaves behind the aforementioned, as well as a sister, Marlene Brock and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be a visitation from 11:00am to 12:00pm on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Knapp Street Campus of Ada Bible Church, 3869 Knapp Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. The visitation will be followed by a funeral service at 12:00pm and a luncheon after, both at Ada Bible Church. Pastor Kevin Baker will preside. Per his wishes, Jim was cremated and his ashes will be spread alongside his beloved wife, Dee, later this year.

Jim's family would appreciate any donations in his name be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Rest in peace, Jim Elliott. You will be remembered by your loving family and friends.