Elliot Ross Shur

Elliot Ross Shur
January 9, 2019 – April 8, 2025

With profound sorrow and deep love, we remember Elliot Ross Shur, who passed away on April 8, 2025, at Blank Children's Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, at the tender age of 6.

Elliot came into the world on January 9, 2019, and from the very beginning, he brought light, laughter, and a special kind of magic to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Though his time with us was far too short, Elliot’s impact was immeasurable.

Elliot was autistic, and he experienced the world in a beautiful, unique way—seeing wonder where others saw ordinary. He had a remarkable ability to focus on the little things that so often go unnoticed: the way light danced on a wall, the sound of wind in the trees, or the perfect rhythm of a favorite song. His joyful spirit, curious nature, and gentle heart taught those around him how to slow down, listen deeply, and love unconditionally.

Elliot was a lover of routine, but also full of surprise—breaking into a grin that could brighten even the darkest of days, or finding delight in the simplest of things: a soft blanket, a splash of water, or a favorite toy held close. He had a laugh that echoed with pure joy and eyes that held galaxies of thought. Even though Elliot could not speak with words, his eyes spoke straight to the soul of everyone he met. His Mommy and Daddy miss his laughter, his radiant smile, his sweet scent, the sound of his footsteps running down the hall, and the way he melted into their arms during his cherished close cuddles.

Though Elliot faced profound medical challenges, he met each day with quiet strength and unspoken courage, inspiring everyone fortunate enough to know him. He found wonder in the simple joys of life—magic in bubbles and soothing comfort in wagon rides. Elliot was as fast as lightning, always on the move... often dashing about in his birthday suit, full of energy and joy.

While our hearts ache in his absence, we find comfort in believing that Elliot’s beautiful spirit simply outgrew his little body. He has been gifted his wings and is now flying with the angels.

Elliot leaves behind a family who loved him endlessly: his devoted parents, Libby and Charles Shur; his adoring siblings, Bryson (29), Carrina (26), Joslyn (20), Sophie (17), Brody (12), and Evelyn (4); his cherished niece, Bella; his grandmothers and grandfather, Mary Carol Smith and Jerry (Vicki) Smith; his Aunt Carrie and Uncle L.C. Currin, and their children, Brooklyn and Logan. He is also remembered by countless other loving relatives, friends, and a community forever changed by his presence.

He was welcomed into heaven by his great-grandparents and his favorite four-legged companion, Lulu, who greeted him with her signature doggy kisses.

Elliot taught us to see the world through a different lens—to live in the moment, to find joy in the little things, and to love fiercely and unconditionally. There are no words that can fully capture the beauty of his soul or the depth of the loss we feel. Yet we carry him with us—his light, his lessons, and his legacy—always.

In his six short years, Elliot left an indelible mark not only on his family, but on an entire community. His bright spirit continues to shine in all of us who were blessed to be part of his journey.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Lutheran Church of the Cross, 1701 8th Street SW, Altoona. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Elliot's life. A memorial service will take place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Following the service, Elliot will be laid to rest at Altoona Cemetery in Altoona, Iowa.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to their GoFundMe account in honor of Elliot's memory.

Elliot brought immense joy, curiosity, and love to those who knew him. His passing due to drowning is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of water safety, especially for individuals on the autism spectrum. Drowning is the leading cause of death for autistic children. In his memory, we hope to raise awareness and promote understanding to help protect other lives and honor the light Elliot brought into the world.

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