Kristine K. "Kris" McElroy

Kristine K. “Kris” McElroy, 56 of Sioux City, passed away, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident, on Tuesday, July 27, 2021.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 2, 2021 at Holy Cross Parish, Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church with burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery.  Visitation will be on Sunday, August 1^st at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with family present at 6:00 p.m. and a Vigil Service will begin at 7:00 p.m.  Fellowship and Refreshments will follow the graveside service at St. Michaels Parish Center.  Online condolences may be offered at www.meyerbroschapels.com

Kristine Katherine Graff was born January 23rd, 1965 in Lincoln, Nebraska, to James “JR” Graff and Katherine (Brehm) Graff. She became an older sister to James “Jim” Graff in 1968 and quickly became his chief stylist and hairdresser—much to her mother’s chagrin. Growing up, Kris was an active member of her high school choir, played the piano, and served as a majorette in the marching band. She graduated from Alliance High School and moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, to further her education and care for her grandmother.

Kris met the love of her life, Terence “Terry” McElroy, while working at Coco’s Restaurant in Lincoln, Nebraska. They were blessed with three children: Joshua, Kevin, and Hanna. Their marriage was filled with family, traveling, and lots of joy. When her children were young, Kris spent several years as a daycare provider, creating an extended network of “her kids” that she treasured for years. She later worked as an accountant and bookkeeper for various businesses in Sioux City.

The greatest blessings for Kris in recent years were the births of her five grandchildren. She spent hours babysitting, doing arts and crafts, baking, and spending time with them. She was a natural caregiver, and no job was too big or small. She was a quick call away when there was a sick grandchild but also took care of several adult family members in their times of need. As a final act of selflessness, Kris gave the ultimate gift of life to three organ recipients following her accident. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.

She was welcomed into eternal peace by her middle son, Kevin McElroy, who spent his final months very close to and being cared for by Kris.

Kris is survived by her husband of 35 years, Terry; children Josh (Laura) McElroy of Dakota Dunes, SD, Hanna (Ian) Williams of Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren Jillian, Daniel, Katelyn and Olivia “Liv” McElroy, and Theodore Williams; parents JR and Kathy Graff of Gothenburg, NE; brother Jim (Kim) Graff of Gothenburg, NE; niece Jamie Graff; nephew Sean Graff; daughter-in-law Cortney Seelye; brother and sisters-in-law Jim (Dianne) McElroy, Mary (David) Bishop, Helen Clymer, Eileen (Ken) Friedmann, Maureen VanMeter, Annie (Mike) Meier, John (Marci) McElroy, Patrick (Teresa) McElroy, Katie (Ron) Demers, and Dan (Leann) McElroy. She is also survived by many uncles and aunts, nephews and nieces, cousins, other extended family members, and close friends.

In addition to her son Kevin, Kris was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Katherine and John Brehm; paternal grandparents George and Ruth Graff; father and mother-in-law Terence and Mary Helen McElroy; and brother-in-law Dennis VanMeter.

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