Elaine M. Church

Elaine Margaret Church, 94, passed away on July 25,2024 at Dougherty Hospice House. A private family graveside service will be scheduled at a later date.

Elaine was born on November 15, 1929 in Hartford, SD to Elsie and Nicholas Lauer. She was given the nickname, Tootie, as a child.

Tootie grew up in Dell Rapids, SD and made her home in Sioux Falls shortly after high school graduation. She attended Nettleton College.

She married Donald Thomas in 1950 and they had 3 children. Debra, Lynne and Scott. Don passed away in1967. Tootie married Charles Church in 1970.

Tootie’s employment included the Dell Rapids Theater, Western Surety and Minnehaha County Treasurers Office. Tootie always enjoyed being a homemaker and was happiest at home. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Her house was always filled with an abundance of fun and laughter; whether it was a card game, watching football or making up our own games. Thanks to mom for all the good times you served as our lucky charm by running into the bathroom and standing in the tub when the Vikings needed a score!

She is survived by her brother, Jack; daughter, Deb (Tom Wendt) Thomas; son, Scott Thomas; grandchildren, Dana Stordahl and Thomas Stordahl; son-in-law, Kevin Stordahl and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by husbands, Donald and Charles; daughter, Lynne Stordahl, grandson, Ryan Miller; sisters, Betty Gallagher and Edith Fritz and brother, Fred Lauer.

The family would like to thank the staff at Edgewood Prairie Crossing Assisted Living and Dougherty Hospice House for their exceptional care.

And special thanks to First Lutheran Church for their Sunday service broadcasts.