Elaine Idstrom Spellmeyer

Elaine Idstrom Spellmeyer passed away August 31, 2026, in Eagle River. She was 98.

Elaine was born June 22, 1928, at home in Bettendorf, Iowa, to Luther and Eling (Monson) Idstrom. She grew up in Aledo, Ill., and graduated from Augustana College, where she met her future husband, John C. Spellmeyer.

Elaine and John were married at Messiah Lutheran Church on July 12, 1952, in Aledo. They were married for more than 71 years and shared a life filled with flying, church, travel, ballroom dancing, horseback riding, and time with family and friends. They both knew from their first date that they had found the person they wanted to marry. They were intensely curious about each other. Even in their 90s, they were sharing memories the other had never heard, learning new things about their best friend.

They settled in Richmond, Ind., in late 1965, where they lived for more than 30 years and raised three children, John, David and Susan. In 1998, Elaine and John retired to their home in Lac du Flambeau.

She had a genuine interest in people and a remarkable ability to get to know them. Deep, meaningful connections were the norm. Even during her final weeks at Milestone, Elaine met newcomers, learned about their lives and helped them feel that they belonged.

Elaine was a lifelong learner and a voracious reader who happily spent hours each day with a book. She studied how people communicate and connect and brought that understanding to every part of her life: to family, to friendships, and to decades of community service.

Community service became a major part of Elaine’s life’s work. She devoted countless hours to organizations throughout Richmond and later in the Northwoods, often taking on significant responsibilities and leadership roles. She called her years with Yokefellows International “her favorite.” She worked closely with others to create an unusually rich community of ideas, faith and service.

Elaine is survived by her three children, John (Brooke) Spellmeyer of Derby, Kan.; David Spellmeyer of Oakland, Calif.; and Susan (Don) Jones of Ashland, Mass.; five grandchildren, Andrew, Trayce, Jayden, Don and Elaine; three great-grandchildren; her brother, Roger (Anne) Idstrom of Louisville, Ky.; and many nieces, nephews, and their families.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; her sister, Joan (Monson) Carroll; and her sisters-in-law, Delona (Russell) Kennedy and Betty Jean Hamilton (Franklin).

In memory of Elaine, her family requests that any contributions be made to the Elaine Idstrom and John Spellmeyer Scholarship at Augustana College, which provides financial assistance to academically high-achieving students with demonstrated financial need.

To honor Elaine’s wishes, no services will be held.

Bolger Cremation & Funeral Services is assisting the family, www.bolgerfuneral.com to share condolences.