×

Elaine Bess

ISHPEMING TOWNSHIP, MI – Elaine Loreli (Hill) Bess, 71, of Ishpeming Township, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at UPHS-Marquette in the care of her loving family and friends after a courageous two-year battle with cancer.

Elaine was born September 17, 1954 in Detroit to Harold and Hulda (Hakala) Hill and was a proud graduate of Baraga High School, Class of 1972. Following graduation, Elaine pursued a career in cosmetology, successfully obtaining her certification, and was employed by Guys & Dolls for many years. She also spent some of her career working at Marquette General Hospital.

Elaine was united in marriage to Bob Bess on August 9, 2008. They spent eighteen wonderful years together, enjoying time out on their property on Deer Lake Road and camping trips to Baraga on the Bay. She enjoyed watching the deer and birds and loved the peace and quiet.

Surviving are her loving husband, Bob Bess of Ishpeming Township; two sons: Corey Gilmore of Iron Mountain, and Ben Gilmore of Marquette; two brothers: Mike (Luann Hebert) Hill of Baraga, and Glenn Hill of Baraga; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Gail Heikkinen; one brother, Danny Hill; and a beloved niece, Jennifer Newland.

Honoring her wishes, a private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in Elaine’s memory to Cancer Care of Marquette County.

Elaine’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com