Elaine Christine Berkland, 69, of Marseilles, passed away Sunday, January 28, 2018 at her home.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday February 3, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Marseilles with Rev. Anthony Ego officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday at Seals-Campbell Funeral Home. Entombment will be in the Shrine of Rest Mausoleum in Oakwood Memorial Park.
Elaine was born April 28, 1948 in Ottawa, to Joseph and Eleanor (Ricci) Svoboda. On August 22 1969, she married Andrew Berkland of Seneca, who survives.
“Big Mama”, as she was affectionately known, lived life to the fullest. She loved to travel with her family and friends and would always include details in her Christmas card letters that she was known for writing. She was a die hard “Parrothead” and always insisted on listening to Jimmy Buffett songs during her “short bus” trips so everyone please wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt if you join us on Friday or Saturday. She enjoyed helping with her son’s haunted house every year and decorated her house to the fullest for every holiday. She was known for her outrageous holiday outfits and accessories she would wear to school during the 47 years she taught 4th grade at Marseilles Elementary School before retiring in 2016.
Elaine was a member of the Marseilles Lions Club for many years where she was a past president. She helped with Bingo every Thursday night and was always lending a hand at other club activities and fundraisers. Most of all though, Elaine was the proudest grandparent in the world. She never missed a sporting event or activity and never missed an opportunity to brag about how special they were.
Elaine is survived by her husband, Andy “Big Daddy”; a daughter, Kristi (Wes) Schmidt of Marseilles; a son, Duane (Jessica) Berkland of Marseilles; four grandchildren, Brayden and Conner Schmidt, and Killian and Marina Berkland; one brother, Joe (Judy) Svoboda of Marseilles.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Pallbearers will be Wes Schmidt, Rick Berkland, Gary Erickson, Matt DeMoss, Steve Combs and Frank Formas.
Elaine has been laid to rest in the Shrine of Rest Mausoleum, Sanctuary of Love.