Elaine Hippen

Elaine Marie (Petersen) Hippen died October 11, 2024, at Evans Memorial Home in Cresco, Iowa. She was 86.
A long-time resident of Decorah, Iowa, Elaine was born September 28, 1938, in Auburn, Nebraska. Her parents were Henry F. and Wilma L. Petersen. Elaine grew up on a farm in Nemaha County and attended high school in Johnson, graduating in June 1955. She then enrolled in the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, completing her Music Education degree in 1959. She taught music and music education in Axtell KS, Los Angeles CA, Malden MA, and Decorah.
She married James C. (Jim) Hippen, a native of Oklahoma City, on August 13, 1961. They lived in Boston where she completed a Master of Music Education at Boston University, then moved to Decorah where she began teaching music education classes in the Decorah school system and Jim taught history at Luther College. She is fondly remembered as a music teacher by many classes of students who attended school in Decorah. She also taught private music lessons for many years and was an accomplished performer on piano and flute.
In mid-career Elaine returned to graduate school, completing a Master of Computer Education from Loras College. Turning her professional focus to computer and network technology, she was instrumental in implementing the School District's computer infrastructure and education resources. She is remembered as highly-skilled and generous, always enthusiastic about helping colleagues and students.
Elaine was a volunteer for many years at the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, the Aase Haugen Home, and the RSVP organization. She was a member of the American Association of University Women and of the Luther College Woman's Club, and as a newcomer to Decorah taught Sunday School at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Decorah. She also spent many years providing in-home support for children with special medical needs. She was a dedicated genealogy researcher and delighted in outings with her walking group.
The mother of two children, Elaine found her greatest satisfaction in caring for her family and contributing to the betterment of her community. She was preceded in death by her husband Jim and her brother Loren D. Petersen. She is survived by her two children, Ben and Susan. Elaine will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and many contributions to the people around her.