Elayne June Bowes, 93, of Milan, passed away on January 14, 2016 surrounded by her family at UnityPoint Health- Trinity Rock Island.
The eldest of Andrew and Hazel Carrigan Kruse, Elayne was born on June 3, 1922 in Rock Island. She graduated from Rock Island High School in 1940 and the Moline Business College the following year. She was married for twenty years to Ernest J. Bowes.
Elayne is survived by her children (and spouses), S. Gregory Bowes (Jan) and Michael J. Bowes (Yolanda) all of New Mexico, and JoLayne Hays (Jay) of Rock Island. Her family legacy includes grandson Jasen (Allison) and great-granddaughter Austen, grandson Michael (Grace) and great-grandchildren, Griffin and Madelyn, granddaughter, Mindy (Mike) and great-grandchildren, Bailey, Hannah and Michael, all residing in Portland, OR; and grandchildren, Jay, of Davenport and Jill, of Rock Island. Elayne's four younger siblings Kenneth, Robert and Richard Kruse, and Joan Kruse Brooks all preceded her in death.
Elayne led an exceptional life, conquering more than her share of challenges and reaping the love returned by all those she inspired. She became a loving and nurturing person early in life as she lost her own mother at ten, and assumed adult responsibilities and sibling care sooner than most. After becoming a single parent, she successfully raised her three teenaged children, an achievement she often said was her greatest. She worked as a waitress at Town and Country Restaurant and Omelia's Supper Club. Her favorite job, though, was as hostess and function planner at Mill Creek Country Club. She had a unique ability to get along well with co-workers of all ages- from the teenagers to the fellow seniors. Elayne was able to live independently throughout the rest of her 93 years, which was one of her greatest desires.
For Elayne, the family was the truest source of her satisfaction, pleasure and excitement. She was an inspiration for her entire flock - numbering almost two dozen - making each family member feel special. She took an active interest in the lives, loves and professional pursuits of her entire family and was regularly rewarded by her extended family with phone calls, visits, cards and trips.
A private family service will be held at a future date, per her request. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home & Crematory, Milan, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials in her name can be made to Honor Flight of the Quad Cities, an organization which she held in the highest regard. We shall remember Mom, Grambo, Gram and Great-grandma for her love, care, penchant for duty and her keen sense of humor. She will be remembered for the loving care she has given us all throughout our lives.