Elaine Ruth Tabaka

Elaine Ruth (nee Thomas) Tabaka of Milwaukee, WI died at home on December 19, 2021`at the age of 80. Elaine is survived by her daughter Sherri (Michael) Tabaka-Morrissey; grandchildren Michael (Judianne), James (Rebecca), and Anthony; great-grandchildren Madeline, M. Isaiah and Sebastian; siblings Marilyn (David) Knight and William Thomas; nephews and nieces Laurie, Jerry, Mark, Linda, Julie, Koni, Sue, Annie and Lynn. Elaine was proceeded in death by parents Charles and Stella (nee Mersenski) Thomas, and her sister Nancy (nee Thomas) Wall. A graduate of Bay View High School, in her early years Elaine worked for Harnischfeger. Later she worked in hospitality, property management, and finally the hotel industry after earning an Assoc. Degree in Hotel Management. Elaine was hardworking and committed to professionalism. Though she was a self-described “non-swimmer,” this didn’t stop her. In her early years Elaine loved to water ski; before warnings came out about unprotected exposure to UV rays, she also took pleasure in keeping up her tan while raising tomatoes, doing yardwork, or reading by the pool. During the colder months, cheering for the Packers brought her joy. Elaine was a deeply private person. She had a flair for decorating and enjoyed second-hand shops; she also had a penchant for cookies and very hot coffee. The family wishes to express appreciation to Elaine’s physician, Barbara Grzaba-Gracz, MD, for having provided many years of compassionate medical care. Special appreciation is extended to Elaine’s beloved brother William (“Bill”), as well as to Gloria, Marilyn and David, for their loving support and encouragement through the years. Visitation will be held on Friday January 7, 2022, at Christ United Methodist Church, 5200 S. 48th St, Greenfield, from 9:30 AM until the time of memorial service at 10:30 AM. For the health and safety of all, masks required. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Gideons International, or a charity of your choice. The service will be available for livestream viewing via FB at: https://www.facebook.com/pastormao.greenfield