James “Jim” A. Kelava, age 70, of Allendale, fought hard but failed his saving throw vs. cancer on Friday, March 8, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Magdalene Kelava; brother Robert Kelava; brother-in-law, Donald Butler. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 50 years, Cheryl (Butler); children, Michelle and Shane Copeland, Michael and Jennifer Kelava; grandchildren, Anthony Ogg, Matthew Ogg, Kaleb Copeland, Olivia Copeland, Santana Samora, Chaya Samora, Alyssa (Saul) Hilliker, Brittyn Samora, Sarita Samora, Spencer Kelava, Logan Kelava; great-granddaughter, Alice Hawley; sisters and brothers-in-law, Betty Kelava, Carl (Ruth) Squires, Harold  (Jeanne) Butler, Norman (Beth) Butler; aunt Evelyn Klukos; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1970-1978. He worked for HS Die and Engineering Inc. Jim loved sports, especially hockey, baseball, and football. He was the leader of a family of nerds, spending time playing role-playing games, computer and board games. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 12, 7:00 pm at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Allendale) 6651 Scott St., with Pastor Steven Starks officiating.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday from 4:30 to 6:45 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or to the American Cancer Society.

Leave Your Tribute Message

March 12, 2019 12:12pm
To the Kelava family God is with you and He will give you all you need , in this time of sadness.

- Ken and Carol Noorman

March 11, 2019 10:23am
So sorry for your loss. It was such a pleasure to meet you both.

- DAWN V CATO

March 09, 2019 2:33pm
Michelle, so sorry to hear about your dad. Your family is in our hearts and prayers.

- Laurel Killgore

March 09, 2019 7:01am
Cheryl - I was sorry to hear about your husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

- Dawn Butler Davis

March 08, 2019 4:42pm
He will be missed. As Celine had said, Uncle Jim was my favorite. Sorry for your loss.

- Lilibeth Butler




Order flowers for Jim's service.

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

White Wonder

Thinking of You Basket

Tender Touch

Stargazer Garden

Stargazer Easel Spray

Sincere Sympathy Garden

Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

Remembrance Easel Spray

Natures Glory

Loving Embrace

Gerbera Greetings

Colorful Memories Wreath

Classic Sympathy

Blooming Duo

Bells of Beauty

Beautiful Memories

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

Floral arrangements provided by Love Knots Floral.

 

Keola Stress Less Gummies

Relieve stress and anxiety with Keola Stress Less Gummies.

Keola Pain Relief Balm

Ease aches, and sooth sore joints with Keola Pain Relief Balm.