Dodgeville – Edith Elaine Evans, age 97, of Dodgeville, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 16, 2017 at Bloomfield Healthcare.

"One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love." (Sophocles)

And love is the word that embodies Elaine Evans. Her journey began February 22, 1920 with her parents, Levi and Alice Dyer. Blessed with 10 siblings, Elaine is survived by one dear sister / friend, Ardyth.

In 1936, a wise and handsome Welsh farmer, Daniel Evans, captured Elaine's heart. Together, they farmed and welcomed 4 children: Ronald (Therese), Bradley (Julie), Gregory (Juanita) and Victoria Keyes (James). Community minded, Elaine was active in church, school, 4-H, Homemakers, Eastern Star and Writer's Club.

Eventually, Dan and Elaine combined their talents to open a restaurant / campground, christened Hideaway Acres. Elaine's homemade lemon meringue pie and fried chicken are remembered by all who were lucky enough to indulge. The business of operating a campground became secondary to the friendships cultivated and the many activities Elaine and Dan hosted with genuine generosity. Their pleasure in sharing the magic of Hideaway was ever-present.

Elaine enjoyed a busy life, and without fail, found time to garden, bake, frequent auctions, quilt, craft, hike, fish, author a cookbook, tell stories, babysit and attend events. Her greatest joy was giving and nobody benefitted more than her family. She was a constant. Her love a quiet thread of steel drawing all those she loved together. She taught and lived the values of faith, work, tradition and held family above all else, making each member feel infinitely special. Elaine inspired loved ones to the best they could be, proud of every individual for whom they are. Her love came with no strings. She asked for little and gave mightily.

Elaine was preceded in death by 9 siblings, her husband Dan, her son Brad, and her grandson Brandon. Forever, she will be loved and revered as wife, mother, grandmother and friend who easily put family needs ahead of her own. Family was her favorite subject, her prized accomplishment and source of pride and joy. She nurtured, supported and guided each member with her calm and loving strength. Her warm light will never cease to shine into our lives and hearts. Elaine possessed a regal dignity, ready wit, soft wisdom and quick humor. These traits were woven with a fair measure of mischievousness often appearing as a spark in her eye her family adored. Oh, how this amazingly endearing woman will be missed.

A special thank you to Elaine's many caregivers at Upland Hills Health, Bloomfield Healthcare and Hospice. You touched our lives with your kindness and blessed Elaine's final days.

As Elaine wished, a private celebration of her life will be held at a later date.