James Elliott Walz

Jim had a love for hunting, fishing and camping. He would tell his children stories of his hunting trips with his brother Dave and friends. One time he had to let a 10 pointer go because there was a cop nearby (he said it was the one that got away).

When he moved to Georgia, his love for fishing grew even more. Jim would get a new fishing pole and fishing reel (either salt water or fresh water) for Christmas every year. As soon as all the presents were open, he would sit in garage lining his new pole and reel so it could be ready to use for his next fishing trip with his family. He always had a way with the pole and caught the biggest fish—even on the days he didn’t catch anything, he said it was a good day. He even turned his pill bottles into fish bobber (he was proud of those).

One of his favorite places to camp was the Smokie Mountains. While residing in New York, him and his family would go to a camp grounds weekly making wonderful memories around the firepit (he loved the smell of a campfire). The campground became his second home.

Jim was a hardworking man and always provided for his family. He gave his wife and children the best Christmas gifts. Even Santa couldn’t top his gift. But one time he thought he was going to get away with giving his wife a satellite dish for Christmas. As always, Natalie found out and said, “Jimmy, I know that is not my Christmas gift!” And, in old Jimmy fashion, he found the purse she wanted, the day before Christmas Eve, and it was the last one on the East Coast!

Jim had a way of making traditions that will carry on through his children. He was tried of receiving ties and dress shirts for Christmas and mandated the “No Boring Gifts” rule! After that rule became effective, he never received another tie or dress shirt. It was replaced by fish finders, a beach cart for his fishing gear and much more!

On February 15th, Jim and Natalie would have celebrated 36 years of marriage. They started dating on August 15, 1979, and he popped the big question on Christmas Day of 1984. As every girl wanted, Natalie was wined and dine and received a dozen roses. Just when she asked him, are you missing something, he asked for her hand in marriage at 11pm. He made her wait until Christmas Day was almost over.

Jim was greeted in heaven by Father James, Grandpa Tom, Grandma Dot, Brother Bob, Dog Rocky along with other loving family members and friends.

Survived by his loving wife Natalie, his children Jessica, Alyssa (Pumpkin), Robert and granddaughter Lilla - who called him “Big Kahuna.” His siblings, Tom, Dave, Mary and Timmy. Mother (Little Grandma) Therese, other relatives, and friends.

The family request donations to St. Jude in lieu of flowers.

The family would also like to thank everyone for all the love and support you have shown during this difficult time. Jim was loved and he loved you all.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.woodstockfuneralhome.com for the Walz family.