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Justin D. ElRite

MARQUETTE, MI – Justin David ElRite, son of Richard and Rosemarie ElRite, born on October 3, 1967 in Hancock, MI passed away on July 26, 2017, from bladder cancer.

He attended Houghton Public Schools, graduating in 1986. During his senior year, Justin experienced a life-changing spinal cord injury leaving him a quadriplegic. His positive attitude allowed him to overcome this handicap and live an independent life. While attending Northern Michigan University, he enjoyed coaching football at both Marquette Senior High School and NMU. After graduating with a degree in criminal justice, Justin was an active participant with the “Think First” program, sharing with young adults the consequences of the decisions one makes in life. While making his home in Marquette, Justin strongly advocated for handicap accessibility in public areas. He also loved to travel.

Justin is survived by his parents Richard and Rosemarie ElRite; sisters, Kelly (John) Fox and Melissa (Larry) Skendzel; brothers, Jason (Kim) ElRite and Mark ElRite; he is also survived by nephews and nieces, Michael and Justin Fox, Jackson and Daniel ElRite, Kate, Adam, and John Skendzel, and Jeremy, Matthew and Emily ElRite. Also sharing in his loss is Justin’s committed partner and significant other of 17 years, Lisa Cram, and her family, Bruce and Victoria Cram, Bruce Jr. (Amy); nephews, Wil and Keagan, Jessica (Tina); and niece, Lily. Justin leaves behind his beloved service animal, Hazel, and is now reunited with his first service animal, Ellie Mae.

His passing leaves a huge hole in our hearts, and he will never be replaced or forgotten.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, July 28, 2017 at 4 pm at the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home with Rev. Leon Jarvis officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service. A luncheon will follow in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to UPAWS.

Memories of Justin may be shared at canalefuneral.com