Elaine M. Beekman

Elaine Beekman was born on September 28, 1928 to the late Frank and Helen Bourassa in Oconto, Wisconsin. She was joined in holy matrimony to Earl Beekman in 1946. To this union four children were born.

Elaine first began work at a shoe factory in Oconto with her then future husband Earl. Early in their marriage, they decided to move to Milwaukee. She became a crane operator at Allis Chalmers for a short period when they first relocated. She then decided to stay at home with her children, during which time she also developed her love for baking and ceramics. When her eldest son enlisted in the Air Force, Elaine decided it was the perfect opportunity to begin working 3rd shift at Crestwood Bakery. Once back in the workforce, she continued to work until she retired from the YMCA at 90 years old! Elaine enjoyed traveling globally with family and friends. She also enjoyed planting her hundreds of red geraniums every spring; baking Christmas cookies and candy, and keeping herself constantly busy. She was also known to occasionally visit a local casino.

Elaine peacefully departed life on August 20, 2024 at her home. She was preceded in death by her husband Earl; her son, Michael; and her great-grandson Bryce. She was also preceded in death by two sisters and four brothers.

Her memory will be cherished by her son: Ronald (Girlee) Beekman; her daughters: Cindi (Tom) Burrell; Lori Wisch; 3 granddaughters: Sher-ree Beekman, Sherron Beekman and Jenna Farris; 1 grandson: Demetri (Maria) Beekman; 4 great-grandchildren: Reece Beekman, Ophelia Farris, Aspen Farris and Silas Sabinash; 1 brother: Duane (Sharon) Bourassa; 2 sisters: Norine Walters and Doris Filter and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces & nephews and a host of other loving relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 26th, 2024 at 10 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 3722 S. 58th St., Milwaukee, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM. Entombment immediately following the Mass at Arlington Park Cemetery, 4141 S. 27th St., Greenfield.