Elaine McClintock-Hoff

Elaine Hoff, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on April 14, 2025, with her loved ones by her side. She was 73 and will be remembered for her joyful spirit, love of family, and incredible strength.
Born on December 18, 1951, in Sterling, Illinois, Elaine was the cherished youngest child of her family-a role she embraced with joy and a sparkle of mischief. Known for her love of life and infectious energy, she found happiness in dancing, laughing until tears came, and cranking up the music-whether at a live concert or blasting tunes in the car with the windows down, sunroof open, and sunglasses on.
Elaine was the heart and soul of her family. For over 30 years, she shared a deep and devoted love with her husband, Dave Hoff. Together, they built a life filled with adventures, quiet moments, and unwavering support. Elaine fiercely loved her children-Ryan (Ariel) Eddinger, Rachel (Jason) Smith, Kortney (Derek) Haag and stepson Brian Hoff - and her love and pride for her grandchildren knew no bounds. She delighted in their joys, championed their dreams, and made countless memories with them, from family vacations to being the life of every party.
Elaine dedicated much of her life to fostering a love of reading in children, serving as both a librarian and the District Librarian for Warren and Lena-Winslow schools before retiring in 2014. Her remarkable gift for finding just the right book for every student touched countless young lives and inspired generations of readers. She continued pursuing higher education working on and obtaining her Master's degree in her 50's, setting an example of perseverance and determination for her children and generations to come.
Travel was one of Elaine's great joys. Whether relaxing in the Florida Keys, taking family trips to Hawaii, Orlando, and Chicago, or visiting her grandkids in Minnesota and Kansas, she treasured every moment exploring the world with those she loved. One of her most cherished adventures was a European trip with her daughters, exploring Scotland, Amsterdam, Florence, and Rome.
A passionate sports fan, Elaine could often be found cheering-sometimes loudly-at the TV during Bears games or rooting for her beloved KU Jayhawks. She streamed every one of her grandkids' games, cheering them on as if she were right there in the stands. Her love of sports reflected how she lived: with full heart, high energy, and unwavering loyalty.
Elaine had the rare and treasured gift of truly listening. She offered wisdom and warmth without judgment. She was the friend you called for advice, the mom who always had a thoughtful idea, and the grandmother who was always there when you needed her. She was, without question, one of the strongest and bravest women you could ever meet. In the face of chronic illness, Elaine never let go of her fierce love for her family. She faced every challenge with grace, resilience, and a heart that never stopped giving.
Elaine is survived by her loving husband, Dave Hoff; her children, Ryan (Ariel) Eddinger, Rachel (Jason) Smith, and Kortney (Derek) Haag; her stepson, Brian Hoff; her siblings, Lavonda (Ralph) Weidel, Ron (Mary) McClintock, and Larry McClintock; and her beloved grandchildren: Adisyn Hoff, Stella Eddinger, Sophia Eddinger, Owen Haag, Keaton Haag, Lottie Smith, and Riley Smith. Her presence, her laughter, and her boundless love will be felt in their hearts forever.
She is preceded in death by her sister, Kathleen (James) Hendricks, and her parents, James and Pearl McClintock.
Elaine's light will never dim-it lives on in every story shared, every hug remembered, and every song that plays on a sunny day with the windows down.
Funeral service will take place at 1:00pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Lena, IL with a visitation from 11:00 until time of service.
Pastor Jason Shaw will be officiating the service.
Burial will take place at the Lena Burial Park in Lena, IL.
A memorial has been established in her memory.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.leamonfh.com
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