PO1/SW1
James “Jack” W. Elliott, age 100, a longtime resident of the Kettle Falls and Colville areas of Washington, passed away on Nov. 19, 2021, at his Colville home.
Jack was born on Sept. 16, 1921, in Manard, Idaho, the son of Roy Taylor and Nora (Kendrick) Elliott. Jack was welcomed also by an older brother, Bill, and they later welcomed a sister, Elma, the youngest of the family.
Following his education, Jack began a career in the U.S. Navy. He worked as a welder, repairing returning ships that had been damaged. He received his first honorable discharge and then began driving school bus.
In 1947, Jack married Elaine M. Yarroll and they began a family.
Jack worked several jobs to support his growing family over the years.
He re-enlisted in the Navy, this time as a SeaBee. Upon the completion of 20 years of service, Jack retired in 1966.
The family then moved to Kettle Falls. Jack was only 45 years old and too young to quit working, so he began a second career at the Boise Cascade plywood mill in Kettle Falls. Another 20-year career followed and he retired a second time – this time for good.
Jack was always busy farming, caring for his roses or, whenever possible, fishing.
In 2009, he and Elaine moved into their brand-new home in Colville. They enjoyed a fenced yard for their dog and roses bushes for Jack to groom and grow.
Jack had a quiet nature and whenever he spoke, the family was surprised.
He kept to himself more often than not and was not one to ask for assistance.
He had strong beliefs and ideals and held to them throughout his years. He was a touch ornery sometimes, always independent, and will be forever missed.
Jack was an active member of the local Search and Rescue with his Rottweilers. He and Elaine also enjoyed showing dogs for two years in their retirement.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Bill.
He is survived by his wife of 74 years, Elaine Elliott of Colville; daughters, Jody Hoffman (Fritz), Bonnie Trudell (Bob),and son, Wes Elliott (Jan), all of the Colville area; nine grandchildren; over 20 great-grandchildren and at least one great-great-grandbaby; sister, Elma Omlin of Quincy, Washington; several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
The memorial service for Mr. James “Jack” W. Elliott will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, at The HUB Senior Center in Colville.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Stevens County Search and Rescue.
Please visit the online memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.
Published by The Statesman Examiner from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1, 2021.
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