Elias, William James 'Bill'

William James “Bill” Elias

William James Elias

William James Elias, 63, of Richland, Wash., formerly of Cedar Rapids, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 5, 2011.

Bill was born March 18, 1948, to Robert J. and Margaret P. (Shanahan) Elias, in Cedar Rapids.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his three brothers, Clair L. (Linda) Scott of Tucson, Ariz., Thomas P. (Sue) Elias of Cedar Rapids and Charles F. Elias of Lake Havasu City, Ariz.; in addition to an extended family of aunts, uncles, many cousins and nieces, and close friend, Terry Butler.

Bill had an independent and adventuresome spirit, traveling extensively throughout the United States, Alaska and Mexico. After graduation from LaSalle High School in Cedar Rapids in 1966, he traveled to California and worked as the equipment manager for the Elvin Bishop Group, a popular Blues & Rock band that toured constantly. His next adventure took him to Alaska where he became a King Crab fisherman, working on various boats venturing out on the Bering Sea. Bill lived in Alaska for a number of years and traveled during the offseasons, living for a time in Hawaii and Mexico City. He then moved to Washington and was employed by the U.S. Postal Service. He eventually returned to Cedar Rapids, where he trained with IBEW Local 405 to become an electrician. Bill returned to Washington and worked as an electrician/instrument technician until his passing.

He was a member of IBEW Local 112 in Kennewick, Wash., and a charter member of the Patrick J. Shanahan VFW Post 788 Men's Auxiliary in Cedar Rapids.

Bill was a big man and he had an even bigger heart. He was always willing to help out his family and his friends in any way he could. Bill was a gentle counselor and a friend to all in need as well. He was loved by many and will be sorely missed.

Memorial services are pending.

You are invited to post remembrances online at

Memorials may be sent to Clair Scott, 38231 S. Desert Bluff Dr., Tucson, AZ 85739.