Elaine K. Figel

Elaine passed away, peacefully surrounded by her family, Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Rose Arbor Hospice. 

She was born in Plainwell on October 9, 1946, the daughter of Donald and Bernadeen (Dussia) Pierce. Elaine worked for many businesses over the years. She was a skilled typist and worked for the Shopper’s Guide, Bronson Hospital, Parker Hannifin and Kalamazoo Savings and Loan. She was most proud of the years she spent working as a secretary at Washington Street Elementary School in Otsego, retiring in 2010. After retirement, she was a part time secretary at the Otsego United Methodist Church. 

Elaine enjoyed shopping, reading and more than anything loved spending time and being surrounded by her family. She was an active member of the Otsego United Methodist Church. On October 11, 1963, at the First Presbyterian Church in Plainwell, she married Irvin Figel Jr. who survives. 

Also surviving are her children, Julie (Steve) Potter and Matthew (Phanompon “Safety” Wongthonglua) Figel; grandchildren, Brock (Claire) Potter, Nolan (Rachel Silkey) Potter, Quin Rice and Tessa Rice; great-granddaughter, Millie Potter; son-in-law, Todd Rice and special very close cousin, Linda Cooley. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Melanie Rice. 

Elaine’s kind spirit and joyful personality will be missed by all who were privileged to know her. 

According to her wishes cremation has taken place. 

Friends may visit with Elaine’s family starting at 11:00 A.M., Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the Winkel Funeral Home, until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 P.M., with Pastor Joe Shaler officiating. 

Private family burial of ashes will take place at Mallory Cemetery in Trowbridge Township at a later time. 

Contributions in memory of Elaine may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Centrica Care Navigators.

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.