Elaine Rourke, 68 of Mason City passed away surrounded by family Friday, January 26, 2024 at MercyMedical Center Des Moines.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00 pm Friday, February 9, 2024 at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St. NE, Mason City, IA.
Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
Elaine Teresa was born July 11, 1955 to Francis and Matilda (DeJoy) Schmolz in Hudson, NY. After losing her father at age 15, Elaine attended high school at St. Mary’s, later graduating from Hudson High School in Hudson, NY. She continued her education at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, NY where she met the love of her life, David Rourke. On October 8, 1977 the couple was married and later blessed with two daughters: Jillian and Robyn. In 1987 the family relocated to Mason City, following David’s work, and built a home that welcomed friends and neighbors as family.
Elaine, a vibrant and strong Italian soul, had an unparalleled love for people. She radiated warmth and kindness. Her kitchen was a haven, where she could whip up just about anything with a magic touch. No one left with an empty stomach. Beyond her culinary talents, she effortlessly became a second mother to many of her daughters’ friends, making her a beloved figure in countless lives. Her house was a home where laughter echoed, especially around the pool, where she spent countless hours with kids and friends.
Elaine’s adventurous spirit soared as she crisscrossed the map with David: exploring the wonders of San Francisco, Colorado, The Adirondacks, Door County and so much more. Zoos held a special place in her heart, as did the vast expanse of the ocean. Her home was adorned with a beautiful collection of angels, a testament to her nurturing and caring nature. Yet, amid all her passions, her greatest love was her family. Elaine’s eyes sparkled with joy when surrounded by her four beautiful grandchildren, whom she was known to spoil on occasion. Those lucky enough to know her love, will carry on her story for generations to come.
Elaine’s strength was extraordinary. Whether battling breast cancer or her recent battle in the hospital, she faced each hardship with unwavering determination, never letting it dim her infectious smile. Elaine fought with her head held high until the very end. And when it was time to rest, Elaine rested. Her strength and resilience are a source of inspiration for her children and grandchildren.
Those surviving are her beloved husband of 46 years, David; daughters, Jillian (Jeff Milbrath) Menning of Mason City and Robyn (Ben) Bakkum of Colorado Springs, CO; grandchildren, Hudson, Stella, Ezra and Isla; Hudson and Stella’s dad, Tony Menning; brothers, William (Laurie) Schmolz and Jim (Helen) Schmolz; nieces, Shannon (Alex) LeBrun, Carolyn (Ronan) Haldane and Jennifer (Brian) Straniti; David’s siblings, Jimmy (Kathy) Rourke, Janice (Don) Odom and Tommy (Rosita) Rourke; nieces and nephews, Chris (Veronica) Rourke, Megan (Conner) Tuzi and Andrew (Kara) Rourke; as well as great-nieces and nephews and many extended family members and cherished friends.
Preceding her in death are her parents, Francis and Matilda; and a sister, Karen.
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