Elaine Eckley

Elaine Fisher Eckley, 90, of Billings, passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2013.

Elaine was born in Rice Lake, Minn., on Aug. 23, 1922, to Frank and Edith Fisher. When Elaine was 15, she moved to California with her mother, brother and sister during the Depression. As a teenager, she worked many jobs to help support the family.

At a USO dance in Sacramento during World War II, she met the love of her life, Kermit "Koke" Eckley. After Koke returned from the war, they moved to Montana, Koke's home state.

They settled in Sidney, Mont., where they raised four children, Kay, Jami, Susan and Mike. Elaine was a devoted wife and mother. Elaine's hands were always busy creating through her sewing, knitting, crocheting, painting, quilt making and cooking. She had a sweet disposition and beautiful crystal blue eyes.

In 1963, after the sudden death of her husband, she moved her family to Billings and went to work for MetLife, where she formed many lasting relationships.

Elaine's final years were spent at St. John's Lutheran Ministries, where she received exceptional loving care by the staff and her three girls.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Koke Eckley, and her son, Mike Eckley.

Elaine is survived by her three daughters, Kay (Ernie) Olness, Jami (Scott) Livengood and Susan Root; grandchildren Ernie Olness, Brent Olness, Barbara Rich, Michelle Breum, Paul Kaneski, Mandy Koch, Raney Glasgow, Mike Eckley; 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; brother Bob Fisher; and sister Betty Kline.

Cremation has taken place. Private family services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by Cremation & Funeral Gallery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cfgbillings.com through "Our Families."

Elaine Eckley