Hilda M. Elsea

1917 - 2012

Hilda M. Elsea, 94, of Alma, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 24, 2012, at home.
Hilda was born Oct. 26, 1917, in Onaway, Mich., the fourth of six children (and the first daughter) of Edward and Hulda (Carlson) House. Hilda graduated from Alma High School, and excelled in academics and girls athletics (receiving several varsity letters). She married Don Elsea, former Alma businessman and owner of Don Elsea Jewelry and Sporting Goods store.
She was the beloved mother of four children, Diane (John Sr.) Pavlik of St. Louis, Jeff (Joyce) Elsea of Alma, Jill (Jody) Witlock of Curtis, Neb. and Wendy (Keith) Bott of Wheeler; grandmother of Tiffany Bott, Tina Rodriguez, Chad Robinson, Brad J. (Sarah) Robinson, Ryan (Angie) Elsea, Sara Elsea, Todd (Cora) Pavlik, John Jr. (Kathy) Pavlik; and eight great-grandchildren whom she adored.
Per her wishes, private graveside services have already been held; The Rev. Thomas Brackbill of First Presbyterian Church officiated with interment in Riverside Cemetery, Alma.
Hilda was a life-long member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Alma. She was kind, fun-loving, energetic, and loved the outdoors, especially camping, snowmobiling, hiking, flower gardening, hot dog roasts, and hunting and fishing trips with her husband Don in various places in the United States and Canada. Her favorite holiday was Christmas with her large Christmas Eve party for her family, which she held at her home for the last 69 consecutive years.
Hilda was pre-deceased by husband Don in 1979; four brothers, Dan, George, Emerson and Terry House; and great granddaughter Marta Rodriguez.
"We'll miss you, Mom; May you rest in peace."
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Lux-Moody-Wolfel Funeral Home, Alma.