William A Elliott

William Andrew Elliott

William “Bill” Andrew Elliott, age 83, a great man known for his giving heart and unselfishness and a big supporter of his family, friends, and community left us on November 14th, 2024. Bill lived a life of pride and service towards all that he encountered. 

Bill was born on September 8th, 1941, in Littlefork, Minnesota, to his parents Irene and Howard. He spent his younger years with his siblings, Darlene, Bobby, Howie, Mark, Starr, and Andy. He grew up in International Falls, Minnesota, and graduated from Falls High School. Athletics were a big part of his youth at Falls High. Bill lettered in football, baseball, and basketball. Because of his skills and tenacity, he gained the nickname “Wild Bill”. He co-captained the 1959 Falls Bronco basketball team that missed the state tournament by one basket. 

Bill went on to Bemidji State College. He decided to leave college to join the Army Reserve where he was proud to tell everyone that he served as the cook, which is quite ironic because those cooking skills didn’t transfer back home. To his credit, he was pretty good at making toast according to his two grandchildren. 

During his time in the Army, he met his future wife Lorraine (Armstrong) Elliott at a Bronco vs Muskies hockey game. Even though the encounter started with a joke from Bill and a response from Lorraine calling him a Yankee, it was the start of a beautiful love story. Bill and Lorraine got married on February 8th, 1964. They continued a life of love and commitment to each other for 60 years. Ten months after being married, they welcomed their first child Bobby-Jon. Six years later they welcomed their second child Natalie. Bill had a great love for his wife and children and gave everything he had for them.

Bill began his career at Mando Paper, but public service was his calling. He decided to join the volunteer fire department and became a police officer. After some time, Bill decided he wanted a bigger role in law enforcement, and in 1974 he ran for Koochiching County Sheriff and won. During his time as sheriff, he greatly impacted his community. Just a few accomplishments to mention were the introduction of the 911 system and the building of the new jail and law enforcement center. During his years as county sheriff, Bill devoted his time to coaching the Falls football and basketball teams, as well as many youth teams. He always treated and cared for his players as if they were his own. 

Bill retired as the sheriff in 1999 and enjoyed his retirement years in Fort Myers Florida with his wife Lorraine, the two of them made many good friends and enjoyed their time golfing and socializing in their happy place.

Even though Bill had many accomplishments, his biggest joy came from his two grandchildren Emma and Elliott Peterson. Being a Papa was the most important role for him. He spent his time supporting both grandkids in all of their activities. You never had to question who he was watching because he was sure to brag about his grandkids and tell everyone how amazing they were. Emma and Elliott loved their Papa beyond measure and will always be proud of him and everything he accomplished throughout his life. 

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Robert and Howard Jr, his sister-in-law Pam Elliott. He is survived by his wife Lorraine of Hermantown, children Bobby-Jon (Marsha) of Hastings, Natalie (Erik Peterson) of International Falls, and grandchildren Emma of Grand Forks and Elliott of Minneapolis. Also, his sister Darlene Olsen (Clarence) of International Falls, sister-in-law Sharon Elliott of Fairmont, sister Starr Oustad (Larry) of International Falls, brother Mark (Susan) of Bemidji and brother Andy (Julie) of Champlin. 

Bill will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He left an impact on his family, friends, and community. His legacy will live on forever in our hearts. 

The funeral service will be held at the Zion Lutheran Church in International Falls on November 30th from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm. Following the service, there will be a celebration of life at the Elk’s Club from 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm. There will be a live stream of the service at https://www.facebook.com/ZionLutheranIFalls. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Falls Education Foundation / Purple Pride in memory of Bill Elliott https://www.fallseducationfoundation.com/