Elaine Dolores DeRocher

Elaine was born June 30, 1939, in Gwinn, a daughter of Isaac Jarlie and Vieno Maria (Maki) Hendrickson.

For many years she was employed as a airport branch bank manager prior to her retirement. However, she will be most remembered by family and friends for her fierce SISU determination, independence, strong work ethic, and love of family.

She often announced at the beginning of one of her many projects, that there would be “no big fuss”. In reality, that was never, ever the case. From her elaborate Christmas decorations inside her home and on display on her house and lawn, the holidays were always festive at her address. In preparation for the holidays, she and her family collected twigs, boughs, and dried weeds which she hand fashioned into dozens of gorgeous wreaths.

She was happiest when in her yard, and in the spring and summer could often be seen pushing her wheelbarrow, collecting acorns and sticks with rake and shovel.

When winter came, Elaine valiantly faced the snow in her driveway with her “two shovel method”. With a shovel in each hand, she proceeded down the driveway, making sure no flakes of snow remained. This method ensured she had the cleanest driveway on Midway Drive, something she was very proud of. As the years advanced, even her children and grandchildren could not dissuade her from this mission, and she became quite good at getting the job completed before her children could arrive to help.

When it came to baking and cooking, the same rules of determination and independence were still in place, although most times the word “excess” would be the description. Known for her delicious homemade family recipe biscuits and doughnuts, her full dinners were lavish displays of anything and everything. On these occasions, she prepared for days in advance, waving off any offer of assistance, and presenting a meal that offered everything, especially lots of food for guests to take home for the coming days and weeks.

Elaine’s other passions included being a talented seamstress and mender of clothing and growing and tending beautiful flower gardens. However, her greatest fulfillment came with being a mother and grandmother.

Whether it was family over for saunas, a festive dinner, or just enjoying the fruits of her labors, a nice glass of Beringer White Zinfandel could bring a nice ending to a perfect day.

For many years, many stories were told about Elaine and her numerous interests, but all attest to her love of family and the lady who was “never too busy to be busy”.

Elaine is survived by her two children, David (Cathy) DeRocher of Marquette and Debra (DeRocher) Palm of Marquette; three grandchildren, Crystal DeRocher, Levi DeRocher and Danielle Palm; her three sisters, Karen (Paul) LeGrande of Ohio and Lorraine (Bill) Hirn of Gladstone and Edna Meloni of Florida; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Fred in 2005; and her sister, Evie Hendrickson.

Honoring Elaine’s wishes, no services will be held. Instead, have a drink in her honor.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com