Elaine Juncker

Elaine Barbara Juncker
January 23, 1938 – October 28, 2025
Elaine Barbara Juncker, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, in Novi, Michigan, at the age of 87.
Elaine was born on January 23, 1938, in Radisson, Wisconsin, to Walter and Marie Gilbertson, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where she spent her childhood and early adult years surrounded by family and lifelong friends.
Elaine was married to John Blakely Juncker, with whom she raised three children: Kyle Morgan (born Karla Jean Juncker, who preceded her in death), John Eric Juncker, and Jerald Kurt Juncker. Although Elaine and John later divorced, they shared a deep bond and became close again later in life before John's passing.
Elaine was a devoted and caring mother who took great pride in her family. She was also a loving grandmother to Elizabeth, Jeremiah, Laura, John Patrick, James, and Peter, and a proud great-grandmother to Eden, Juniper, and Harper. Her family was her greatest joy, and her kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew her.
Throughout her life, Elaine loved skiing, tennis, and boating. Her happiest moments were spent at the family cottage on Lake of the Clouds, where she enjoyed countless summers taking rides on her pontoon boat and spending time with loved ones. The cottage remained her cherished retreat throughout her entire life.
In her later years, Elaine faced health challenges with quiet strength and resilience. Even through difficult times, she continued to find joy in her days and to express love and gratitude to those around her.
Elaine is survived by her sons, John (Paulette) and Jerald (Virginia) Juncker; her brothers, Ronald and Ed Gilbertson; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
On Thursday, November 20, 2025, a memorial gathering will take place at O'Brien-Sullivan Funeral Home in Novi, MI. from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. No funeral service will take place at this time. A private family service will be held at a later date to celebrate her life and scatter her ashes at Lake of the Clouds, the place she loved best. In honor of Elaine, and in lieu of flowers, share a milkshake with someone you love - share a memory of Elaine, and create a new memory for yourself.
Elaine's family remembers her as a woman of grace, humor, and devotion - a mother whose care and love shaped generations. Her memory will forever remain a blessing. One that is felt and heard as a gentle giggle in the wind across the lake.