Elaine C. Zahara age 91, passed comfortably in her sleep, in Helena, MT on September 1, 2012, from complications due to hip fracture. She was born to the late Sara Swedenborg DeGroat and Mahlan Degroat on June 9, 1921 in Minneapolis, MN.
Elaine lived in Helena, MT for 72 years. Was married to Samuel J. Zahara for 25 years.
Elaine graduated from high school and continued her education through work related classes. She worked for Shodair Children’s Hospital and Western Union in the 1940’s. From the 1950’s to around 1985 Elaine worked for both Federal and State government offices in the clerical field. She retired in 1985 and as an active senior, sang in Sweet Adeline’s and Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church Choir. As a caring, loving person Elaine also was a teachers aid in the Montessori schools. She then went to Broadwater School where all knew her as “Grandma EZ”. She helped 1st and 2nd graders with reading and bandaged booboos.
Two sons survive Elaine: Dwaine Schoener of New York, NY and Gordon Zahara of Laughlin, NV.
Other relatives include, daughter-in-law Teressa Zahara; Grandson, Sean Berrier, and four Great-Granddaughters, Miranda, Marina, Marisa, and Mirae Berrier, Nephews Ed & Tim Wong, Nieces Noella Light & Connie Mercy. Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel J. Zahara in 1972 and daughter, Gwynne L. Zahara in July 29, 2008.
Elaine will be greatly missed by all who entered her live. She was a gentle, caring, loving person who enjoyed life to the fullest.
Elaine will be laid to rest next to her daughter Gwynne at Forestvale Cemetery. A graveside service will be held, at the cemetery, at 3:00pm on Friday, September 7, 2012. To offer a condolence or share a memory of Elaine, please visit: www.retzfuneralhome.com.
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flossie says
Your smile and gentle way will be missed.
Morgan, Gretchen and Tegan Maynard says
We only knew Elaine a short while but she really was a special person. Our mother/grandmother resides in the Aspen Gardens home with Elaine. We looked forward to visiting with Elaine and bringing her treats when we visited “Mom.” She was very special. Even under difficult circumstances, she had something nice to say and a sweet smile to share with us. We will really miss her. Take care.
Perrie(Cloud) White says
Elaine was a very special person to me. She was one of the first people I met when I moved to Helena in 1960. We worked together at Western Union and she was very nice to me. She was also a close neighbor later on and we had great visits together and with my children when they were small. I will never forget her. God Bless.
Lois Baker says
As a neighbor to Elaine & Gwen in the 90’s, they were so welcoming and loving. We missed them so much and loved it when they surprised us by visiting us in Missoula. My prayers go out to the family.