Posted: Monday, December 28, 2009 11:06 am

Elayne B. Lewis, age 85, of Northfield, was called to her eternal home with Jesus Christ her Savior, on Thursday, Dec. 24, 2009, while residing at Northfield Care Center.

Elayne was born Feb. 28, 1924, in Faribault, Minn., the daughter of John and Beatrice (Oswood) Morelan. She attended schools in Faribault, graduating with the class of 1941. Elayne was first employed by the telephone company in Faribault but later moved to Chicago with her sister, Beverly, to work in a defense plant during World War II.

Elayne married Richard L. Lewis on June 6, 1944. The couple made their first home in St. Paul and later in Richfield, Pine River and Northfield. In addition to her working career, Elayne was bookkeeper and payroll accountant for Atlantic Mills in Richfield. She also was a federal employee in St. Paul for 19 years. Elayne loved her work there and made lifelong friendships. She also enjoyed china painting, cooking and baking; sharing her gift of hospitality, photography and shelling in Florida; and especially spending time with her family. They all brought her so much joy.

Elayne is survived by her childhood sweetheart and husband of 65 years, Richard; children, Richard J. (Sheryl) Lewis of Eagan, Robert (Terry) Lewis of Hovland, and Patricia (Richard) Anderson of Eveleth; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert Morelan of Faribault; sister, Beverly Nauman of Faribault; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant daughter; sister, Sara Ann Driessen; sister-in-law, Jeanette Morelan; and brother-in-law, Glenn Nauman. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009, at the chapel of the Northfield Retirement Center. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery, following the service and luncheon. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Memorials are preferred to Northfield Retirement Center, Cornerstone Community Church, or the American Bible Society.

Arrangements by the Bierman Funeral Home of Northfield.