Mr. Orville James Elema's Obituary
Orville James Elema, age 82, went to be with his Lord and Savior on June 2, 2023. Orville was born in Muskegon on June 3, 1940, to Jacob and Jennie (Hopma) Elema, and was a lifelong resident. He started Paris Studios of Photography in 1960. He achieved many awards in photography, including a Master and Craftsman’s Degree. Orv also served as President of the Professional Photographers of Michigan. He especially loved his work with local schools, photographing sports and school dance pictures. Orv created countless memories with his portraits of families, weddings, and high school seniors. Orville was a man of strong faith and served in many ways, including as an elder, and loved running the sound board for Sunday services. Orville’s infectious smile and bright blue eyes always brightened up a room and was loved by all that knew him. Orville married Nelly Sonnega on August 31, 1962, and they were married for 60 years. Together they have three children: Jon (Kathy) Elema, Eric (Krista) Elema, and Kristin (Chad) Davignon. They are also blessed with eight grandchildren: Joshua (Alisha), Mitchell (Shelby), Kristina (Kevin), Jacob, Jason, Katie, Chase, and Ryan; as well as two great-grandchildren: Samuel Elema and Amelia Davignon. Also surviving, sister-in-law, Marie Stults, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws, Aldrik and Nellie Sonnega; brother, Jack (Lou) Elema, nephew, Jimmy Elema; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Don and Barb VanderJagt; brother-in-law, Russ Stults. The family invites you to join them for visitation at the Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, on Tuesday, June 6, from 5-7 PM. The Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, June 7, at 11:00 AM at Unity Reformed Church, 1521 Porter Rd., Norton Shores, 49441, Pastor Dave Celeskey officiating. Contributions in memory of Orville may be made to The Lionheart School, in honor of his grandson Ryan’s school (thelionheartschool.com) and Unity Reformed Church.
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