Elaine Welge

Elaine Welge, 99, of Eau Claire, formerly of Eleva, died peacefully on Dec. 3, 2018.
Elaine was born on Jan. 18, 1919, on the family farm, north of Eleva, to John and Amanda (Berg) Nelson. She was the third of seven children. She attended Big Creek School and Eleva High School, graduating in the class of 1936. She went on to college in Whitewater, graduating in 1940. After teaching for a couple of years, she took a job with the Koeneman Insurance Agency, where she was a faithful employee for 28 years.
Elaine married Edgar Welge on March 4, 1972, in the middle of a Wisconsin snowstorm. Elaine and Edgar lived in Chester, Ill., until Edgar’s passing in 2000. Elaine then returned to Eleva to be near family. She most recently resided at Heritage Senior Living, in Eau Claire.
Growing up on the farm, Elaine helped with chores and took pride in driving the tractor. In college she enjoyed choir and playing the trumpet in the band. She was a proud member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and served in many capacities in community service projects and social events. Edgar and Elaine were famous for always serving delicious meals to family and guests. They especially had a reputation for their homemade ice cream.
Elaine is survived by one brother, Norris Nelson of Eau Claire; many beloved nieces and nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Edgar; siblings, Alice Thomte, James Nelson, Esther Adams, Florence Anderson and Richard Nelson.
Memorials may be given in her name to Eleva Lutheran Church, the American Cancer Society, or the charity of your choice.
Elaine was blessed to have many angels in her life.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 6, at the Eleva Lutheran Church with Pastor Bob Castro officiating. Burial will follow at Eleva Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5, at Kjenvet-Smith Funeral Home, Eleva, and at the church on Thursday for one hour prior to the service.