Elaine Grachen Obituary

Grachen, Elaine L. Habenicht Age 75, passed away on October 22, 2012. Beloved mother of Stephan (Rhonda), Barbara (Grachen) Ciesemier, and Mark; wife of the late Joseph Grachen; daughter of the late Eugene and Emily Habenicht; sister of Howard Habenicht; aunt, grandmother and friend to many. She was born January 25, 1937 in Chicago and grew up in Berwyn and Western Springs. She graduated from Morton High School, went to Monmouth College then Northwestern University where she earned her nursing degree. She married Joseph Grachen in 1959 and lived in LaGrange with her family until 1989 when they moved to the Joliet area. Her caring nature and devotion to others was evident in her decades-long nursing career at Hinsdale Hospital, Community Memorial in LaGrange, LaGrange Pediatrics and McNeal Memorial in Berwyn. She gave her time as a CPR instructor and was involved in many professional organizations. A life-long member of the Presbyterian Church, she was involved throughout her adult life as a deacon, elder, and member of the choir. Her many talents included knitting, where for years she dedicated her skills to the prayer shawl ministry, and making mittens and sweaters for disadvantaged children. Elaine will be remembered for her warm spirit, generous light and kindness to others. She is now at peace. Services will be held on Saturday, October 27 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Joliet. Donations may be made in her memory to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA, 22312 or donations.diabetes.org.