Elaine Jelinek

December 4, 1944 to August 7, 2024 - Elaine Marlene (Lewis) Jelinek left this world on the morning of August 7, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Elaine was born on December 4, 1944, and was the youngest daughter of Fay & Mattie (Warren) Lewis. Her family also included 2 sisters, Audrey & Sharron, and brother, Duane. She was born and raised in The Dalles Oregon.

Elaine met the love of her life, Eugene “Gene” William Jelinek, in The Dalles while he was working there. They married on February 4, 1962, and moved to Eugene Oregon where Gene had been transferred. They quickly began growing their family which eventually grew to 4 children, Kimberly (Nick), Tina (Jason), Shawn (Brian), and Chris (Laura), 8 grandchildren, Danica, Cody, Colby, Miranda, Nicholas, Brooke, Austin & Taran, and 7 great-grandchildren, Gabe, Mason, Paisley, Eli, Maverick, Grayson & Wyatt.

Both Elaine and Gene’s lives revolved around their children and grandchildren. They were always the parents who volunteered to coach, fundraise, drive, make costumes, whatever was needed. They never missed a game, recital, or performance of any kind, and that dedication also continued with their grandchildren.

Elaine began her working career in the late ’70s after being a stay-at-home Mom. She retired from Fred Meyer after more than 30 years in 2014.

Elaine was loved by anyone who crossed paths with her. And she never met anyone she didn’t embrace into her world. She will be missed by anyone fortunate enough to have her in their life.