On February 9, 1940 she married Harold “Howdy” Soeldner who was the love of her life. They began building their house in Waseca in 1947, which they called home for the remainder of their lives.  Elaine spent several years as a homemaker, but when her daughters were both in school she worked part time at city hall and the courthouse in Waseca. In 1963 she began full-time employment as a claims adjuster at Federated Insurance in Owatonna until her retirement in 1980.

A wonderful and creative cook, Elaine collected recipes as well as beautiful table settings and enjoyed entertaining her family.  She was an excellent writer and kept a journal until shortly before her death.  Elaine cared about all animals, especially her beloved cats as well as the birds and squirrels which she fed each day in her back yard.

She is survived by two daughters, Judy Sutter of Coon Rapids, MN and Jana (Terry) Danger of  Hollywood, FL; three grandchildren, Jeffrey (Debbie) Sutter, Tane Danger, and Tawna Danger; and two great grandchildren, James (Rachel) Carroll and Cori Sutter.  She is also survived by dear friends, Joel Sutter and Kathleen Connor.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold Soeldner in 2003; and son, Jeffrey Jon Soeldner in 1948.

Memorial services will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waseca on Monday, December 3, 2012 at 2 p.m.  Burial will be at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca.  Kinder-Dennis Home for Funerals in Waseca is handling arrangements. www.dennisfuneralhomes.com