James "Jim" Elder's Obituary
Mr. James “Jim” Elder, age 53, of Grand Haven passed away unexpectedly, Monday, June 30, 2025, at Trinity Hospital. He was born June 18, 1972, in Grand Rapids to Merl and Diana (Evans) Elder. On May 1, 1998, he married Kendra Holtzclaw in Grand Haven.
Jim enjoyed working for Mollers North America, Inc. as a Controls Engineer for almost 14 years. Jim was a member of Grand Haven Church of the Nazarene and is a current member of Connection Point Church. He enjoyed reading, camping, smoking meat or cooking of any kind and working on cars, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was always up for any adventure. He was such a devoted husband and father. He was a light in the lives of all who knew him. His journey was one marked by love, generosity, and faith. Jim was also a man that brought fun and joy to every and any occasion. He truly enjoyed life to the fullest. His passing has left a void in the hearts of family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. He truly loved the Lord and was a servant at heart, who will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Kendra; three children: Andrew, Ian and Erin; parents, Merl and Diana Elder; brothers, Todd (Stephanie) Elder, and Carl (Catrina) Elder; in-laws, Richard and Carol Holtzclaw; brothers-in-law, Ron (Lisa Holt), and Brett Holtzclaw; dear friends, Mark and Niki Harmon; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Jodi Elder.
A memorial service will be 3:00 PM Friday, July 11, 2025, at Connection Point Church. Visitation will be held 4-7 PM Thursday, July 10, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Jim will be used for college funds for the children. Checks can be made out to Kendra Elder. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.
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