Elaine A. Gruchow

Elaine A. Gruchow, 89, of Waterloo, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024, at Home Again in Waunakee.

Elaine was born March 10, 1935, the daughter of William and Verna (Wild) Knapton. She was a graduate of Marshall High School, Class of 1953. She married William Gruchow on August 13, 1955, at the Marshall United Methodist Church. They were married for 66 years at the time of his passing in 2022.

Following high school graduation, Elaine worked at Wisconsin Supply until she became a full-time homemaker. Elaine and Willie delivered the Wisconsin State Journal for over 30 years in Waterloo.

She was a talented seamstress who taught some adult enrichment sewing classes in the evening for Madison Area Technical College and did sewing alterations. She enjoyed cooking and gardening (vegetables, strawberries, and flowers). She liked a good game of cards, 500 and euchre. Anyone who really knew her knew that “lavender” was her favorite color. She was kind to everyone whether human, animal, or bird-always keeping the feeders full and enjoying those who visited. She enjoyed spending time with her family.

She is survived by her son Gary (Polly) Gruchow of Waterloo and daughter Gail (Brent) Grover of Lodi; six grandchildren: Terrence, Christopher (Amanda), Travis (Katie), and Cassey (Samantha) Gruchow and Brooke (Brandon) and Brandon Grover; six great-grandchildren: Logan, Nolan, Bryson, Nikko, Nicholas, and Elizabeth; and great-grand dogs Nora and Onyx. She is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, husband Willie, and siblings: Roy Knapton, Vernice Motl, and Cecil Chadwick.

The family would like to thank the staff at Home Again-Waunakee and Agrace for the wonderful care that Elaine received from them.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Marshall United Methodist Church with Rev. Marty Stanton presiding. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the time of service at the church. Elaine will be laid to rest at Medina Cemetery in Marshall following the service.