Michelle DeJonghe-McElwee

Michelle was born in Dunkirk, NY, and was the oldest child of Allan DeJonghe and the dearly departed Lois (Klaybor) DeJonghe.

Michelle was adored and beloved by her entire family. She spent her childhood in Van Buren, NY, loving the beach and water. After attending Fredonia High School and Fredonia State University, she moved to Dallas, Texas, to begin her family. Her career with several businesses blossomed and she soon became a valuable asset. She worked diligently to start her own payroll and accounting firm.

Michelle was a devoted mother and overcame many obstacles to provide a bright future for her children. She was dedicated to her children, yet still found time to open her arms and home to anyone in need. Her generosity and loving care were an inspiration to everyone she encountered.

Michelle is survived by her daughter, Lindsay DeJonghe (fiance’ Josh Powers), and son, Sean McElwee, both of Dallas, Texas; father and stepmother, Allan and Jayne DeJonghe, of Dunkirk, NY; her brother, Jason DeJonghe (Jennifer), of Landenberg, PA; and sister, Kellie DeJonghe Whitehead (Jason), of Hamburg, NY. She is also survived by her grandfather, Charles DeJonghe, of Dunkirk, NY; stepfather, David Lawrence (Cheryl) of Dallas, TX; nieces, Sophia, Aubree and Emily; uncles Gary, Mark, Mike, Steve, Larry and Dennis; cousins, Rob, Jeremy, Missy, Todd, Tim, Kelly, Garrick, Dana, Julia, Jordan, Karly, Lauren, Ryan, Sarah, Bekah and Evan; and numerous other loving family members and friends. Her loving godchild, Jaxson, who called her “his Mimi.”

In addition to her mother, Lois Klaybor DeJonghe, Michelle is predeceased by her loving grandmother, Virginia DeJonghe, grandparents, Tex and Lorraine Klaybor, and her aunts, Kathy Klaybor McAfee and Laurie Klaybor.

A celebration of life for family and friends will be held on June 23, 2018 in Fredonia, NY. Details of the location and time will be shared at a later date. The family is very appreciative of your thoughts and prayers.