Elaine Hannah Louise Mertes, "Gramma Lainey" or "Grom" 78, of Eau Claire, passed away on Saturday, September 15, 2012, at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire, after a fearless and courageous fight with major health issues. Elaine was born in Eau Claire on December 8, 1933, the daughter of Walter and Clara (Larson) Woodford. Elaine graduated from Eau Claire High School with the Class of 1951. She married Francis T. Mertes in Eau Claire. Elaine was a devoted and faithful member of Harvestime Church. She loved listening to classical music, painting, fresh flowers, reading, cooking, spending time with her family and friends, and constantly had a smile on her face. Herding six strong-willed children was no easy task, but she always performed it with patience, grace, vitality, and a great attitude. Elaine became the mother and father of the family after the loss of Fran. Her bravery, strength and commitment to all of her children, as well as her treasured friends, were commendable to a higher degree. Elaine is survived by her six children, Mike Mertes (Lana Seagren) of Phoenix, AZ, Ann Erickson of Park City, UT, Mary Mertes (Sean Bullis) of Las Vegas, NV, Tom Mertes (Lissa Wadewitz) of Portland, OR, Jean (Mark) Quinn of High Point, NC, and Colleen Mertes of St. Cloud, MN; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Francis; parents; and brother, Harold Woodford. Funeral services will be held at 11am, on Tuesday, September 18, 2012, at Harvestime Church, 3231 S. Hastings Way in Eau Claire, with Rev. Kim Buckman officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7pm on Monday, September 17, 2012, at Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral Home, 814 First Ave. in Eau Claire, and one hour prior to the time of service on Tuesday, at the church. Interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Eau Claire. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Harvestime Church.

Service Information

Cemetery

Oak Grove Cemetery Eau Claire WI

Visitation

Monday, September 17 2012 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral & Cremation Services 814 First Avenue Eau Claire WI 54703

Service

Tuesday, September 18 2012 11:00 AM

Harvestime Church 3625 Southwind Drive Eau Claire WI 54703