- Date Of Birth: September 7, 1936
- Date Of Death: April 29, 2017
- State: Michigan
Doris Jean Elzinga, age 80, went home to be with her Lord on April 29, 2017. Doris was born September 7, 1936 in Parma, MO, the daughter of Richard and Goldie (Bare) Stricklin, and was a longtime Portage area resident. She graduated from Schoolcraft High School and Carnegie Institute in Cleveland, OH as a Registered Clinical Secretary. On April 10, 1959 she was united in marriage to Jacob Allen “Jake” Elzinga. Doris was very active in the Portage Methodist Pathfinder Church including Sarah’s Circle, Sunday School and helped with the Easter Egg hunt, Trunk or Treat, Fish Fry, sending cards and donating food.
She was also very active with the book clubs and lunch groups including the Sterling Oaks West Girls and the Greenhouse Girls. Doris loved all high school football but especially Portage Central and Schoolcraft. She and Jake spent 15 winters in Englewood, Florida where they shared great memories and made great friends. Doris loved all animals, especially her cats. She regularly contributed to many animal rescues and children’s charities.
The most important part of Doris’ life was her family, including her church family. Surviving in addition to her husband Jake are their children: Mark Elzinga, Jeffrey (Stephanie) Elzinga and Daniel (Shelli) Elzinga; grandchildren: Amanda Elzinga, Amanda Plummer, Donovan Plummer and Abigail Plummer; siblings: Cathy Walz and Linda Stricklin; many nieces and nephews. Doris was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Susan; her grandson, Jacob; her sisters, Carol and Joan, and her brother, Donnie.
