MADISON - Elaine Margaret Gauvin, age 87, passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at UW Hospital. She was born on October 9, 1937, in Durand, Wis., the daughter of Wayne and Thelma (Hooker) Gauvin.

Elaine grew up in a farming community outside Durand. She developed her compassionate heart early in life through examples set by the goodness and generosity of her beloved parents, Wayne and Thelma. One day while riding bareback on her horse Silver, Elaine caught the eye of a handsome young local man, William J. Komro, who was passing by the Gauvin farm. They fell in love, married and spent four years stationed outside Sacramento, Calif., while William patriotically served our country in the U.S. Air Force. Elaine loved California! After William’s active military duty, William and Elaine moved back to Wisconsin closer to their roots to raise three beautiful children, settling in Rice Lake and later La Crosse.

Elaine’s life revolved around her three children and three grandchildren. One of her life mottos was “anything worth doing, is worth doing well.” She set a great example in this and took great pride in the academic and athletic achievements of her three grandchildren. One of her greatest joys in life was when family or friends stopped by to visit with her on her backyard deck on a sunny day, while she served them her famous homemade lemonade. She was passionate about playing tennis, riding in her red convertible, watching NFL football with her family, listening to Elvis Presley’s music, and dancing. Her infectious sense of humor enriched the lives of those around her. For example, her comical imitations of her granddaughter’s ballet dancing were priceless!

Elaine spent the last 50 years of her life living in Madison, Wis., a vibrant community she quickly embraced. During this phase, Elaine worked as a real estate agent and administrative assistant for the UW until she retired. Up until just a few years ago, she absolutely loved riding her bicycle every day around Lake Monona. When she was no longer able to ride her bicycle, she turned to walking several miles every day on her bike path. She enjoyed the camaraderie with her neighbors that this fostered. She was truly an inspiration to many in her neighborhood.

Among the adjectives that come to mind when friends and family describe Elaine are fiercely loyal and loving, kindhearted, spirited, intelligent and quick-witted, cheerful, independent and strong. She loved family above all and they loved her. She will be dearly missed.

Elaine is survived by two daughters, Deborah (Michael Volenberg) Komro and Cynthia T. Komro; one son, Timothy Komro; brother, Wayne J. Gauvin; three grandchildren, Kathryn, Abigail and Caden Komro; daughter-in-law, Kathleen Malone Komro; and father of her children, William J. Komro. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents; and brother, Giles Gauvin.

A gathering will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025.

Elaine’s family wishes to extend special gratitude to all of Elaine’s neighbors, including those along her walking path, who were so good to her especially in her later years. It warms our hearts that such generosity of spirit exists in our world.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to plant a tree or to the National Park Foundation (https://www.nationalparks.org).

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Elaine Margaret Gauvin

October 09, 1937 - January 15, 2025

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