Elaine Marie Finnegan

Elaine Marie Makielski was born at home on August 2, 1926 in Chicago, IL to Philip and Amelia Makielski. With Elaine’s two older sisters, Valeria (Koop) and Dorothy (Ryan), the Makielski household was a busy one. Elaine began working part-time in the neighborhood bakery at the young age of 14. After her high school graduation, she worked for the Illinois Bell phone company.

While attending a bridal shower at her friend Jean Finnegan’s home, Jean’s brother Jim, spotted Elaine and asked his sister, “Who’s the blonde?” they went on their first date to a church picnic and the rest, as they say, is history.

Jim and Elaine were married on May 7, 1949 in Chicago, IL. Elaine was a homemaker and wonderful mother to five children, Tim, Denis, Joan (Rubin), Janet (Smith) and John. The Finnegan family made the move to California in 1963 and settled in the city of Orange, where Elaine became actively involved at St. Norbert’s parish in various women’s league activities.

They were the proud grandparents to seven grandchildren, Megan, Michael, Amy, Kelsey, Raitt, Jeremy and Monica. They especially enjoyed the family visits when the house was filled with activity once again.

After almost 40 years living in Orange, Jim and Elaine moved to northern California in 2002, making their home in Sun City Lincoln Hills. They made many wonderful friends and enjoyed gardening and many other activities.

In 2015 they moved to Sierra Pointe Assisted Living where Elaine enjoyed Wii bowling, craft activities and special musical guests.

Elaine lost the love of her life, after 68 years of marriage in August 2017. Two days later her oldest grandchild, Megan Finnegan, joined Grandpa in heaven. We are comforted knowing she is again reunited with loving family.