James "Jim" Edward McElwain

James (Jim) Edward McElwain 

September 25 1969- July 28 2024

James Edward McElwain was born September 25 1969 in Kalamazoo Michigan, he was called home on July 28th, 2024. He served in the Army National Guard from 1987-1989 as A Cannon Gunman and in the United States Marines Corps Lieutenant Corporal from 1989 - 1991 receiving National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Masts. James loved his military career and shared many memories with his family and friends over the years.

Jim was employed with BNSF for 36 years, Jime never saw this as work or a job, it was something he loved to do. He would often say if you loved your job then it's not work, even though he was counting down his days to retirement while laughing. He truly loved his family and friends. He loved every moment that he could spend with his family and with his grandchildren. Jim has lived in Gillette Wyoming for the majority of his life.

James is survived by his parents Lenn and Jerri (Slagger) McElwain, mother and father-in-law Cleoand Diana (yager) Crook his wife Kimberly McElwain; previous wife Stephanie Barnett;  Pamela (Dale) Irvine-PearsonTony(Lisa) McElwain, brother in law Eddie (Deanna) Kerns, Randy(Maggie) Kerns, Bradly Crook; Sons Benjamin McElwain, Trenton McElwain; Daughters Demetria(James) Rhoads, Amanda McElwain and many aunts and uncles five grandchildren and many nieces nephews and many cousins.

Preceded in death: McElwain and Slagger Grandparents, wives Tia Doud, and Tammy Getchall McElwain; many aunts and uncles; his nephew Tony McElwain Jr. (T.J) June 13, 2024.