Elaine Poole

Elaine G. Poole, 89, of Overland Park, Kan., passed away from the effects of bladder cancer December 14, 2007 in Overland Park. She is survived by her five grandchildren Eric Melin, Scott (Monica) Melin, and Beth Olson, all Kansas residents, and Lara (Michael) Inman of Gastonia, N.C., and Julie (Dan) O'Connor of Ocala, Fla. She is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren, which made her commemorative bracelet with a charm for each great-grandchild and grandchild quite heavy. Also surviving are her son-in-law, Carl Melin, and daughter-in-law Ginny Poole. They will miss her dearly. Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph W. Poole, son Joseph W. Poole II, and daughter Sherron F. Melin. She was born in Crystal Lake, Ill. on December 28, 1917 to Arwin and Frances Bauer. She graduated from Northwestern University, where she was a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. Joseph entered the military, and while the couple lived in New York, Joe and Sherri were born. The family also lived in Des Plaines, Ill. and Minnetonka, Minn. She moved to Overland Park over 20 years ago to be near her daughter. Elaine enjoyed being a homemaker and a loving grandmother. To her grandkids, she was "Granny," and was known for her feisty spirit. To her friends, she was "La," and liked to play bridge and do needlepoint. To her daughter, she was a constant companion and frequent shopper who enjoyed helping Sherri with her small antique business. She also loved to travel, and went on many overseas trips.
A memorial service will be held at the Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, 14275 S. Blackbob Road in Olathe, on Monday, December 17, at 2:00 p.m. Remembrances to the charity of your choice.