"Joyce, I've just learned of Jim's passing three+ years ago. I'm so saddened by your loss. Jim was such a great guy. I really liked him. Since moving away, I've become somewhat of a recluse and haven't been in touch with much of anyone. I hope you are doing well and hope I haven't dredged any feelings up. I was just so shocked. God bless you and I miss you, too."
In loving memory of
James R. "Jim" McElroy
April 20, 2009
James Robert McElroy was born on August 20, 1952 in Omaha, Nebraska, the son of Robert Thomas and Joyce Kathleen (Mattes) McElroy. James entered into eternal peace on Monday, April 20, 2009 at the Shenandoah Medical Center in Shenandoah, Iowa. Although Jim is gone from this earth, a part of him will continue to live on through his generous gift of eye and body donation for medical research
Jim was raised in the Shenandoah community. He attended school and graduated from Shenandoah High School with the Class of 1970. Following graduation he attended college at Iowa Western Community College and also Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa. He later moved to the Council Bluffs and Omaha area, but returned to Shenandoah to help his father in McElroy Electric.
Jim worked for the City of Shenandoah as a custodian, and also worked at the Shenandoah High School as a custodian, when needed. Jim was a kind-hearted man, who was always willing to help others when called upon.
Some of Jim's interests included reading, attending church, visiting art museums, dancing, attending single reunions at Graceland College and supporting the Shenandoah Mustang's Athletic Programs. Jim was an active member of the Lion's Club where he held several offices including Chaplain for many years and the Community of Christ Church in Shenandoah.
He was preceded in death by his father. Those left to honor his memory include his mother Joyce, an aunt Norma Mattes of Clarinda, Iowa, numerous cousins and many friends.
Tributes
"class of 1970 so sorry for you loss"
"Joyce, I'm so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. He was always such a nice and intelligent person. I currently live in Tulsa, OK, but ran into him fairly often on my return trips to Shenandoah. Sincerely, Janet Danforth-Bacon Shenandoah class of 1970"
"My family and I lived next door to Jim's mom for many years and have since keep't in touch. Recently I was contacted by the mentoring program here in She and Joyce wanted to do mentoring with my son Kyle. After our meeting that Jim was also I told Joyce I felt this was god's way of bringing Kyle and even Jim together because they both love sports and Jim would be such a positive role model for Kyle and god's gift to both Jim and Kyle. With this tragic turn of events Kyle and Jim never had the chance to truely fulfil finding where that would have led them all. Kyle is very adiment about being there as much as he can for Joyce and continueing the mentoring program with Joyce. Jim will truely be missed for his wonderful personality always remembered for his shy but kind ways. Joyce you are greatly on all of our minds. We love you. Karen Ali and Kyle Sparks"
"Dear Joyce, I truly don't know what to say to comfort you at this difficult time. Know that Jim is reunited with Bob, and welcomed by my mom and all who have gone before. Plus, Jim has given a great gift to the medical community, not everyone can do, or will even consider, that. All the courage and spirit you gave him through his lifetime will be coming back to you, now, to help you through the days ahead. With love, Pat (Brink) Fuller"
"Joyce, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your son. I know Doug knew him and would want to send his condolences to you."
"We were so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. All of you are in out thoughts and prayers Chris and April Heslinga "
"Our prayers go out to Jim's family. Jim and I served together as members of the Shenandoah Lions Club. He will be missed."
"joyce i send you my deepest sympathy for the death of jim he was a very nice person i enjoyed all the time i new and talked to jim know that he is with god and is in no pain, if you need anything at all i am here for you your neighbor and dear friend regina bennett 246 5639 or 246 8334 love you joyce love gina"
"We were saddened to hear Jim had passed away. We were neighbors of the McElroys for many years and found Jim to be a devoted son to his parents. We send our heart felt sympathy to his mother Joyce. Our thoughts are with you. "
"Joyce, I'm so sorry for your loss. I used to enjoy hearing Bob talk about Jim. I know this is a very difficult time for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers."