Louis “Louie” Edward Elya, age 75, of Kentwood, Michigan, passed away Monday, July 7, 2025. He was born September 21, 1949, in Grand Rapids, MI, to the late Robert and Louanna (Hodge) Elya. Louie graduated from Grandville High School with the class of 1968. He proudly enlisted into the United States Navy and served two years during the Vietnam War. He was never the same upon returning to the States. After his time in the service Louie worked in various factories throughout his career until his retirement. Louis was a quiet man who kept to himself. He was kind, patient and very soft-spoken. For many years he took personal care of his younger brother, Jerald. It wasn’t easy living with someone with disabilities. He never complained and did what was needed. He also had health problems and died from sudden cardiac arrest.
Survivors include his five siblings, Kathy (Gary) Dauzet, Charlyn (George) Bailey, Dennis (Beverly) Elya, Garry Elya, and Roberta Elya, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Louie was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jerald.
Burial of Louie’s cremated remains will take place on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Rd, Augusta, MI 49012, with military honors rendered by the United States Navy and Fort Custer National Cemetery Volunteer Honor Guard. A celebration of life is being planned for a later date and details will be announced as soon as they become available.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to the Wounded Warriors Project.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Louie’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006, exclusive providers of Veterans Funeral Care.
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