James Mcelroy

James “Jim” McElroy, 68, of Tempe Arizona, formerly of Clare, passed away Friday May 10, 2024, at his home under the care of Hospice of the Valley.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM Thursday May 30, 2024, at Laufersweiler Funeral Home. Burial will follow at St. James Cemetery in Clare. There will be a visitation from 9:30 until the time of services on Thursday.

Jim is survived by his beloved partner and wife, Cynthia, and his sister Trisha McElroy, of Fort Dodge. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Berneice (Nash) McElroy.

James Carl McElroy was born on July 6, 1955, in Fort Dodge. He attended schools in the area, graduating from NW Webster High School in 1973. After high school he enrolled in Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, studying Turf Management. With the earth of Iowa beneath his feet, Jim cultivated the robust fields he farmed for over a decade. In 1986, he made the move to Tempe, Arizona, where he laid his roots for 38 years. As a dedicated professional, Jim spent 15 years as a respected employee of Allied VanLine, and then 22 years as a Concrete Delivery Truck Driver with Cal-Portland among other companies.

Jim’s Passion for life was evident to all who knew him. An avid storyteller, he cherished recounting his youthful adventures across the Midwest, where he once piloted small planes, taking his companions on whirlwind adventures. Once on the ground, his spirit of adventure continued through motorcycle journeys. Jim took pride in his Harley Davidson which took him on many adventures with his beloved wife, Cynthia Cole McElroy. The pair married on November 18, 2006, and together shared many happy journeys. Jim also had a love for golf, achieving a hole-in-one in April 2023, and enjoyed other outdoor pursuits such as camping, fishing, and snow skiing. Jim’s life was one of joy, generosity, and hard work, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In remembrance of James Carl McElroy, we reflect on the indelible mark he left on the world, the love he shared, and the integrity he embodied. Jim’s memory will be treasured in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those blessed to have known his vibrant and kind spirit.