James Albert McElwee

James Albert McElwee Sr., 86, passed away October 23, 2017 in Olympia, Washington. He was born July 13, 1931 to Albert and Beatrice (Schoolcraft) McElwee in St. Joseph, Illinois. Jim graduated from St. Joseph High School and, in 1950, he moved to Olympia, where he resided 63 years. Jim joined the U.S. Army in 1951. After basic training, he was sent to France where he married Elizabeth Swartsell in 1952 in LaRochelle, France. The couple lived in France until Jim was discharged in 1954. Upon their return to the States, Jim worked for the State of Washington from 1954 until retirement in 1981. He also owned Harley Davidson of Olympia from 1972 to 1990. Beginning with his first Harley in high school and continuing throughout his life, Jim loved Harley Davidsons and the people who rode them. He also loved painting and fishing. He was a member of Olympia Masonic Lodge #18. Jim is survived by his son, Timothy McElwee; four grandchildren; six great grandchildren; brother, Arthur McElwee; and sister, Shirley Crumpler. He was predeceased by his grandparents, A.C. McElwee and James Schoolcraft; parents, Albert and Beatrice McElwee; sons, James McElwee and Ron McElwee; and great grandson, Sterling McElwee. Please leave memories of Jim or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.