Elaine M. Nelson (1925-2016)

Elaine M. Nelson “Puddles,” age 91, a resident of Racine, died Sunday, October 16^th 2016, at Becker Shoop in Racine.

Born on May 28th 1925, in Racine, she was the daughter of the late Alfred and Myrtle Nielsen. Aunt Elaine grew up at the Taylor Orphanage following the death of her mother. Friends and family heard countless stories of her adventures there.

She was educated in the schools of Racine and would still break out into singing the Park High School Song.

She was employed at Western Publishing for years, and then Hamilton Beach, where she prepared castings. She made many life-long friends during her employment. She moved to Chicago and worked for Chamberlain which was owned by John Summers. Aunt Elaine worked in customer service for fourteen years before she retired. Upon her retirement in 1986, she was thrown the biggest retirement party in Chamberlain’s history.

Many people would know her as “Puddles” the Clown. She took clowning seriously and even attended Clown College. She was a member of the Belle City Clown Club. Entertaining the vets at the VA Hospital was extra special to her but she could also be found making others laugh at the 4^th of July Parade, Racine Zoo, nursing homes and children’s parties. She was a consummate entertainer and had a way of touching people’s hearts not only in clowning but throughout her entire life. Expanding on her talents, she created her “Bag Lady” persona for “adult” entertainment. She often joked that she was so old, that she served at the Last Supper, telling everyone if they wanted to eat they should all sit on the same side of the table. With her wonderful sense of humor and caring nature, she was always there for others to lend a hand or a shoulder.

She will be greatly missed by the many lives she touched over the years and her many songs and quotes will forever be held in our hearts.

She is survived by her many special friends and, in her own words, many “very cool” nieces and nephews, her sister-in-law, cousins and countless friends that called her family.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, Alfred and Myrtle, and siblings Betty Lou, Anna May, Ozzie (Rodney), Geraldine and Alfred.

Her family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Becker Shoop for their friendship, their kindness and the care they gave Aunt Elaine. We appreciate all the special attention given to her.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 21^st 2016 at 3:00 PM at Zion Lutheran Church in Racine. (3805-Kinzie Avenue) Visitation with the family will be on Friday at the church from 2:00 PM until the time of services. Committal services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to H.O.P.E. Safehouse, Inc. would be appreciated. (1911-Taylor Avenue, Racine WI 53403)