LEAF RIVER, IL ~ Elaine Mary Berney, age 90, passed away a Generations at Neighbors Nursing Home of Byron, IL, on Saturday, November 1, 2025, with her daughter by her side. She was born December 4, 1934, in Lynden, WA, the daughter of Peter & Rose Marie (Kraft) Lorenz. She later married the love of her life Martin Guy Berney in Pontiac, MI, in 1954, after his was honorably discharged from the military. She loved spending her life doing simple things like putting together puzzles, doing word puzzles, watching game shows, going to the casino, playing card games or bingo and her favorite pass time, watching football. Elaine had a deep love of art; she would often draw and work on her adult coloring books. She always wanted to look her best; she would always make sure her hair and nails were looking for their best. The truest love of her life was her family; she deeply missed her husband after his passing. He loved to surround herself with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
In her passing, she is reunited with her loving parents, her husband Martin, three sons Joseph, William, Tony, sister and two brothers. She is survived and missed dearly by her loved children Duane (Cheryl) Berney of Holly, MI, Brenda (Brian) Zopel of Leaf River, IL; 18 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild.
Elaine is to be cremated at this time and will be laid to rest with her husband and son in Michigan.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
506 W Merchant St, Byron, IL 61010
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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