Elsie Whikehart

Elsie Whikehart, 92, of Fernandina Beach, FL, left us peacefully on October 25, surrounded by her four children. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and loyal friend, Elsie will always be remembered for her smile, her kindness and the unconditional love she showered on her family.

Born on September 15, 1932, in Ft Wayne, IN, Elsie was the daughter of William and Hilda Meiners. She married the love of her life, John Whikehart in 1953. They were married 56 years until his passing. They raised four children and immensely enjoyed their family and friends.

Elsie worked as a church secretary and later as an office manager for Eckrich and then Irmsher & Sons in Ft Wayne. She was always thought of as a great boss.

Elsie was a doting grandmother who truly adored her grandchildren and always kept up to date on what was happening in their lives.

Elsie was an avid card player her entire life. Elsie and her husband John were in a Euchre card club with neighbors when their kids were young. These neighbors turned into lifelong friends. After retirement she continued playing cards with friends and family.

Elsie and John loved visiting Florida and moved to Merritt Island, FL in 1993. They loved the Space coast and would watch rocket and shuttle launches whenever they could.

Elsie loved scrapbooking, creating 36 photo albums full of family memories starting from her mom’s pictures in Germany until present.

Elsie is survived by her children Bill (Karen) of Northville, MI, David (Janet) of Fernandina Beach, FL, Doug (Jennifer) of Croton-on-Hudson, NY and Anne Hall (Scott) of Issaquah, WA. She had 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. She is predeceased by her husband John Whikehart (2009) and her brother William H. Meiners (2002).

Visitation will be Monday, November 4th, 10-11am at Wiley-Baxley Funeral Home, 1360 N Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island FL with an 11:30 graveside service at Brevard Memorial Park, 320 Spring Street, Cocoa, FL.

Elsie’s family ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Lakeside Staff Holiday Appreciation Fund to thank them for the amazing and loving care Elsie received there for the last 3 1/2 years. Make checks out to The Lakeside of Amelia Island, and mail to them c/o Dave & Janet Whikehart, 731 Ocean Club Place, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.