Stories about Elaine
We all knew Elaine loved fun and friends, and we all have so many stories to share! Please share any memories you have of Elaine - funny, happy, sad or anything in-between!
Our Elaine
Proverbs 17:17 ‘A friend loves at all times…’
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Give in Elaine's Memory
April 30th, 2008 at 0:06
I remember this day. We were getting ready for Michelle’s Baby Shower. The theme was a tea party. Michelle had gotten all of the hats from work. Elaine decided to put on all the hats as a way to make it easier for bringing everything in for the shower. I asked her to strike a pose, as I took her picture. She will be greatly missed!
April 30th, 2008 at 13:30
My last memory of Elaine was Thursday 4/29/08. She was the first person who gave me and Paul a card congratulating us on our pregnancy. Thursday morning i had walked by her office as she was coming out, and she had this big beautiful smile on her face, and just patted my tummy and was telling me how excited she was about the baby. My heart goes out to her friends and family. She will truly be missed not only as a co-worker but as a friend. She always has such a beautiful smile every time I saw her, and I will miss seeing that.
April 30th, 2008 at 15:33
About a month ago Elaine happened to see the Xerox repair guy come into our area. He was young and handsome. She pulled me aside and said “I’ve got to meet him”. He came back in a couple of days and Elaine happened to be coming into our area and I motioned to her that he was at the copy machine. She evidently asked him meet her to have drink because as I was escorting him out of the area he seemed a little flustered and quite red in the face. He said a beautiful tall girl had asked him out for a drink but he had told her that he had a steady girlfriend and could not go. He smiled and told me he was quite flattered!
She will be missed here in CivCommS. My prayers are with those she has left behind.
April 30th, 2008 at 19:59
When I first met Elaine and started to work with her, she was as green as grass but was committed to doing the job right, the first time, every time. Elaine was a quick learner and demonstrated the discipline and attention necessary to be efficient and to excel. Over the years Elaine and I developed a mutually respectful professional relationship and she was not hesitant at all to come to me and ask “This is what I want to do. How do I do it right?” From a professional point of view, Elaine’s loss is a significant negative impact on DRSN.
May 1st, 2008 at 15:17
I still remember the very first time I saw Elaine. We were in Great Lakes, IL at ET School. I had a watch and was making rounds when I saw her on the phone with her feet propped up. I was in love immediately. She did kind of give me a weird look after about the 5th time I walked by.
We were stationed together at Ft Gordon, GA where we became good friends. After which I went to Diego Garcia and sure enough a few months later she ended up there as well. While she was there the island belonged to Elaine and her infamous sunflower dress. Every friend I had on that island I got because I was friends with Elaine. We went on many a fishing trip but it didn’t take long to realize we had different priorities when it came to fishing. I would be covered up with SPF 45 and she would be covered in baby oil laying out on the bow.
Elaine was always there for me through some tough times in my life. She was there to stitch my wounds after I had lost a scuffle or when I was having troubles with my ex wife, her words of encouragement were “I never liked her anyways”. That was enough for me.
After Diego Garcia I went to JCSE at MacDill and wouldn’t you know it Elaine followed a few months later. I was elated.
I remember when she got her first Eclipse. Funny thing was she couldn’t drive a manual that well. She went through the first clutch in about 3 months. She always maintained that there was something wrong with the car — but anyone that drove with her had the neck pain to know that it wasn’t the car’s fault. One day she decided to take the car through a drive through car wash. After a short time I noticed that the top was leaking so she pushed the close button to close the top a little tighter. Unfortunately it was as closed as it was going to get. The close button was also the open button for the top. So as she pushed it both windows immediately rolled down and the top started folding backwards. The sheer panic on our faces was priceless. Mine a little more so because I realized that there were 4 jets of water moving close to my open window. So in a very manly fashion I climbed practically in her lap and let out a cry that could only be described as a little girl screaming as the jets of reclaimed water pummeled the back of my head. She finally got everything closed back up and we laughed for at least an hour non stop after that. She could not wait to get back to the shop to let everyone know I scream when I panic.
Then there was the time where she was very excited because she had found a cheap non-stop flight to Chicago but it was out of the St Pete/Clearwater airport. Neither one of us knew the area very well so she got directions. Unfortunately she got directions to the Albert Whitted airport in St Pete. When we got to the entrance we realized that this was no large airport and there was nothing but small prop airplanes there. She was playing it cool but I could tell there was some fear on her face when she realized that her cheap airfare also meant she was going to have to help fly the plane. After a couple phone calls we figured it out that we were at the wrong airport. We had plenty of time and she made her flight.
We had many great times together and it was an absolute honor to be a part of her life. I loved Elaine from the moment I saw her and will always love her. She will always be in my heart and in my thoughts.
May 4th, 2008 at 16:05
Elaine, Marcin, and Brian went fishing one Saturday, and caught some red fish, and snook. She invited us over for dinner for fish, salad, and vegetables. I am the pickiest eater in my family, so of course, I didn’t like the fish, and veggies–yuck! Elaine made me a salad, and brought it to the table. I looked at my plate, and looked at her.
“You gave me tree leaves from your bushes in the backyard?”
“No, it is called endive.”
“Elaine, it is tree leaves. I can’t eat this.”
“It is my favorite.”
“Yeah, I’ll go home later and get some real food.”
She laughed at me. For weeks after, we teased each other about the “Tree Leaves” she tried to feed me.
She started buying iceburg lettuce after that. She wanted to make sure that there was always something I would eat at her house. As if feeding me was a reason for us to be friends.
We had great days the last two years. Boating, playing cards, going out to dinner, celebrating our family birthdays together. I loved her from the moment we met, and will always hold her in my heart. Elaine was truly my best friend in Florida.
May 5th, 2008 at 19:20
Today my son brought home his writing assignment from school. His teacher was not sure how to grade it, so she sent it home. It was a piece of orange construction paper with a giant heart that he had colored red taped to it. At the top of the heart he had written, “Miss Eealen” and had drawn a picture of her underneathe. Under the picture were the beautiful words of my seven year old son,
“She’s in my heart.”
It brought tears to my eyes.
“Mommy, Miss Elaine says I am her first bait mate.”
“You always will be my child.”
Per the request of Elaine’s mom, Geri, this story is for you, from the pure heart of the seven year old boy who had the butterfly land on his head.
Jordan Gilmore
May 12th, 2008 at 9:25
I am a childhood friend of Elaine’s and I haven’t talked to her in quite some time, which I sincerely regret. However, Elaine and I had such great times as kids. I specifically remember the birthday parties at her house and meeting her half way between my house and hers. We used to hang out by the brook that was between our house in the woods. We had some really great times. Even back then, she was such a great friend. I am happy to see what a wonderful life she had and wonderful friends. She will truly be missed.
May 12th, 2008 at 14:29
I had the joy of knowing Elaine for almost half of her life. We met about 15 years ago through my friend John. I still remember to this day the night we met; I had just washed and waxed my car and a few of us where gathered on my friends drive way talking, Elaine decided she was going to jump up on the hood of my car to sit down. Little did she realize the hood had a fresh coat of wax and she went flying to the other side and fell off. At first I thought great she’s never going to talk to me again… but then I heard her burst out laughing and I knew at that point this was not your typical girl. We went out to movies and dinner dates and started to hang out just about every night when I got off work. She had told me she had joined the Navy and was due to ship out to basic training near the end of the summer. I didn’t let that get in the way of me getting to know this gal; I could tell she was someone special. She always had great ideas when there seemed like there was nothing to do.
Near the end of the summer she accompanied me to my brother’s wedding in St. Louis, this being a big deal because we had just started to date and we where now going on a road trip together. To my amazement her parents agreed to let her go. We had a great road trip together, listening to music and great conversation. I was nervous as hell due to the fact that I was my brothers best man, she was there every second to let me know everything was going to be ok and I would make it through the wedding and the best man speech at the reception. I remember giving the speech and finding her in the crowd with her bright smile and big brown eyes helped me through it. That weekend was one of my best memories of Elaine; she was always there for anyone that needed her.
On a side note she also taught me how to make “a REAL sandwich”. I was at my house one day getting ready to make lunch. My sandwich back then included two slices of bread, some mayo, mustard, a slice of cheese and slice of deli meat. When Elaine saw me make a sandwich she made fun of me and said “that’s not a sandwich, here I’ll make you one”. To my amazement I could barely finish her sandwich. I think she used the entire tub of deli meat, about 4 slices of cheese, lettuce, tomato and anything else she could find in the fridge. Now when I make a sandwich I make it Elaine style!
Of all the memories I have of Elaine I think I could write a novel. We kept in touch throughout the years and when I moved to Florida she was always there for me once again, making sure I had something to do on the weekends and if not she would offer to include me in her plans. We went fishing together, hit the beaches, and went to the Roo for drinks after work. One of her favorites was putting Jack in the car, the top down, and crossing the bridge to St Pete. We had also gone on a few quests together in search of “real pizza”. Thinking back on the memories I have of her brings a smile knowing that she was always a happy gal, she never did anything 100%, it was always 110%, (she got that from her folks). I will never forget her as I know not many will; it’s nice to see that she touched the lives of so many. I would like to close with some lyrics from one of her favorite artists, Bob Marley;
Forever Loving Jah
Wo-o-o-o! ya-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya! woy-oh!
Yeah-yeah-yeah, yeah-yeah, yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah! oh!
(we’ll be forever loving jah;
We’ll be forever loving jah!)
Some they say see them walking up the street;
They say we’re going wrong to all the people we meet;
But-a we won’t worry, we won’t shed no tears:
We found a way to cast away the fears,
Forever, yeah!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) we’ll be forever!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) forever, yes, and forever!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) there’ll be no end.
So, old man river, don’t cry for me;
A-have got a running stream of love you see.
So, no matter what stages - oh stages -
Stages - stages they put us through,
We’ll never be blue
No matter what rages, oh rages,
Changes - rages they put us through,
We’ll never be blue:
We’ll be forever, yeah!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) we’ll be forever!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) forever, and ever, yes, and forever!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) ’cause there is no end.
’cause only a fool lean upon -
Lean upon his own misunderstanding, oh ho, oh, yeah!
And then what has been hidden
From the wise and the prudent
Been revealed to the babe and the suckling
In everyt’ing, in every way, I say, yeah!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) we’ll be forever!
(we’ll be forever loving jah)
’cause just like a tree planted - planted by the rivers of water
That bringeth forth fruits - bringeth forth fruits in due season;
Everything in life got it’s purpose,
Find it’s reason in every season,
Forever, yeah!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) we’ll be forever!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) on and on and on!
(we’ll be forever loving jah) we’ll be forever, yes, yes -
We’ll be forever.
(we’ll be forever loving jah)
May 15th, 2008 at 22:22
I know Elaine is laughing at me right now… why? Because she finally has a website with her name on it. I can just see her giving me that exasperated look she had
I bugged Elaine for years to put up a website, or a MySpace page, sign up for an instant messaging account, or to even just get a personal email (in lieu of always using her work’s). Obviously, I never convinced her.
When I’d bring it up, she always made that “sure, whatever” face and demanded to know exactly why she needed to be “online”.
… of course I gave her a million reasons, all of which she dismissed - none of my reasons were on Elaine’s terms, and we all know how Elaine felt about doing things “her way”.
I remember she once told me that being “online” wasn’t something she was interested in because she’d rather be doing things (like plan parties, host dinners, go shopping…) with her real friends.
She never seemed to care one bit for spending her free time in front of a computer when she could be spending it personally with her friends and family (even if that meant spending time in front of another type of screen - like watching movies or playing games on her giant TV!)
Elaine would laugh at me, and I can almost hear her saying “It took this to finally get me on the net?!” but at the same time I know she knows - I put up this site because it’s one of the things I knew how to do, and it’s been one of the ways I’ve felt connected to her memory.
May 15th, 2008 at 22:51
The first time I met Elaine was a little over 7 years ago. She’d already known Ken for about 2 years prior to that, so they had a very established friendship.
When Ken brought me over to her apartment the first time it was almost like being introduced to someone’s parents… because I knew how much Ken respected Elaine’s opinion.
Instead of feeling the pressure of meeting her for the first time, something quite comical happened that lightened the mood.
I walked in her apartment door carrying my 6 month old son on my hip. Ken introduced us and Elaine invited me/us to sit down. What happened next is one of my favorite memories of Elaine.
I could tell that Elaine was embarrassed, but she handled it the way she always did - with a laugh and her famous “no problem” attitude.
She insisted that I take off my jeans so she could launder them on the spot. I was hesitant - I mean, I’d just met this person and here her dog just peed all over me! Now I’m supposed to trust that my jeans will stay in one piece if they’re washed?!
I politely declined, saying that I didn’t think we were staying long so I’d just change when I got back. At this point I was balancing my baby in mid-air so he wouldn’t get wet from Jack’s “accident” and trying not to look really uncomfortable.
Elaine wouldn’t have any of it. She INSISTED.
I asked her exactly what was I supposed to wear while I was waiting for my jeans to wash and dry? Elaine answered that I could of course borrow a pair of her shorts to wear in the meantime…
… to put it nicely, I’m only 5′3″ and I weigh about 110 pounds and it went without saying that there was a bit of a size difference between Elaine and I. I’m sure we were both trying to figure out the logistics of my wearing anything from her wardrobe.
But it was Elaine’s house and she sorta gave me the first impression that I should do what she said, and quick. So I put on a pair of her borrowed shorts - the legs of the shorts went past my knees and the waist had to be cinched up with something Elaine found just to hold them on - I must’ve been quite a sight!
Then Elaine washed and dried my jeans and even asked me if I was allergic to any of her laundry products.
In the end it was kinda neat that Jack peed on me - mainly because we stayed and talked and got to know each other. If it hadn’t been for good old Jack, I’m sure that first visit would’ve been much shorter.
Because of the circumstances of that first meeting, I think I knew from then on that Elaine was the type of friend I wanted on my side… the kind who takes you at face-value and makes sure to extend her friendship unconditionally. A friendship that included laundry.
May 16th, 2008 at 10:48
My Dearest Krissi,
Yet another THANK YOU! Your stories brought smiles, laughter, and tears to my eyes, You truly understood our daughter Elaine, a free spirit, a big heart, and unconditional loyalty. When she decided on something that was it. She had an amazing ability to make you feel comfortable when you were with her. She accepted and found the good in everyone. Genuine, nothing phony about our Elaine. Don and I are so fortunate that God sent her to us, our special chosen child.
May 23rd, 2008 at 10:54
I knew Elaine probably before we were in Kindergarten together. We grew up in the Windings neighborhood just down the street from each other, and we attended both St Pat’s and Rosary together.
Ah, there are so many stories of Elaine to remember! Some of the best memories are:
During a St. Pat’s basketball game, the opponent Elaine was guarding was making her really mad. In the middle of the game, Elaine made a fist at the girl, and it was one of the funniest moments from my childhood. The game stopped. It was the first memory of Elaine my mom mentioned when I called with the sad news of her passing. We both laughed in loving memory of that tough young Elaine. I look back on it now as Elaine being Elaine. As so many have written about her, Elaine lived life at full speed, and this is just an example of her spirit. She couldn’t hurt a fly, but she sure was one tough cookie!
Elaine’s parties were always the BEST of all our friends! She had Halloween parties we all looked forward to w/scavenger hunts, great food, etc. I still remember her birthday party when we saw “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” at the Geneva Theatre. That was SUPER cool.
I have many memories of our daily Rosary “commute” throughout high school. We spent many a morning together in the car, and Elaine would often make fun of me for studying! We would sing along to the radio like fools! One time I ran out of gas after dropping off Kristin Lazarra.. Elaine helped me push it to her house (mostly downhill!) for a little gas to get us out to Pride!
The summer of 1998 I got to spend time w/Elaine in Tampa. We had an absolute blast, and she took my friends and I around to the best restraunts and bars. She knew the place with the killer Long Island iced teas. She was so happy, and I remember thinking at the time how proud I was of her Navy accomplishments. I had just joined the Air Force, and we were sisters in the Services:)
I honestly have so many memories of Elaine - too many to write. The main theme of all of them is crystal clear: Elaine was filled with more energy, determination, and spirit than most! Elaine had a true JOY FOR LIFE. She was absolutely vibrant. She had a laugh you couldn’t help but join in, and she had a smile that could melt the coldest of hearts.
On this Memorial Day weekend, I will remember her service to our great nation. She was proud to be in the Navy, and I know her accomplishments brought great pride to her family.
Much Love & God Bless,
Michelle
May 24th, 2008 at 22:26
Yes Michelle,you and Elaine made many memories together growing up in “The Windings”. I remember both of you being very competitive, responsible,and determined. Both of you served your nation well and accomplished much. Thank you so much for sharing your memories especially the one at the basketball game. We remember that one too.. We miss Elaine terribly and reading and rereading the many memories and kind words that you and others have shared help us to smile as she would want us to and continue to go on and enjoy life.
June 8th, 2008 at 14:55
My birthday came and went. It was hard to celebrate because Elaine was planning my birthday party. My husband had mostly family come over, and a few close friends. I was sad. My mom gave me a giant purple gift bag with a sand sculpture in it. It was the same gift bag I had used for her birthday present in January.
“Nicki, there is something else in the bottom of the bag. It was in the bag when you gave it to me for my birthday in January, and I wanted to return it to you without it getting broken.”
Wrapped in tissue paper was a purple glass flower. The type that holds a candle, and floats in the tub.
“Mom, this isn’t mine. It doesn’t go to anyting in my house.”
“Where did you get the gift bag?”
“Oh my God, I borrowed it from Elaine.”
“See baby, she remembered your birthday. Elaine made sure you got a purple flower today.”
Tears streamed down my face as I held the gift from my friend who couldn’t be here on my birthday.
October 6th, 2008 at 15:48
Although I never had the pleasure in meeting Elaine, I have still be touched by her life. Krissi has been a phenomenal friend to me over the past few years and she holds this key to the “above and beyond” concept in friendship and thoughtfulness that many of us lack. Some people have the gift and some not but for many of us, being that ray of light and emitting that priceless warmth of love to our friends can be gained from just being around people like Elaine. Knowing about beautiful butterflies like Elaine having touched people in this world make me want to love more, give more and live more each and everyday. I keep all of you who mourn her loss in my thoughts and prayers on tough days not only today but whenver those days are… whether it be the birthday she planned and wasn’t able to be there for, the bachlorette party, your wedding, the impending holidays or her birthday… remember the life she lived and that she’s always there in your hearts <3