Elaine Kay Vance 64, of Eatonville, WA passed peacefully in her home on June 8, 2017. The eldest of five children, she was born to Charles and Gladys Hasenbalg on December 30, 1952 in Tacoma, WA. She was raised in the Puyallup area with her 3 sisters Marcia Vogel (Hasenbalg), Robin Higgins and Penny Ridge and her brother Charles Hasenbalg. In 1972 the family moved to Eatonville where they built their home and ran a sawmill for many years. Elaine graduated from Bethel High School in 1972. She married Curtis Vance in the spring of 1974 and they had two sons, James and Adam Vance. In 1984 they divorced and she returned to Eatonville where she remained for the rest of her life.
Elaine worked at Plaza Market for many years in the deli and came to know and befriend many people in town. She was a kind person with so much love in her heart. She seemed to know someone everywhere she went. She was beloved by many for her compassion and eagerness to always help those in need. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed the outdoors. She loved crafting and making handmade gifts for family and friends. She was a wonderful baker and fantastic cook. Her family was first and foremost in her life and she rarely missed a gathering.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Gladys Hasenbalg (Smith). She is survived by her four siblings Marcia, Robin, Charles and Penny, two sons James (Crystal) and Adam, six grandchildren Reyes, Hymie, Garrett, Trenton, Aleecia and Kendall and numerous nieces and nephews. A private celebration of life will be held for family and friends on Saturday June 24, 2017.