Eliane Elium nee Thiebaud, 88, passed away December 11, 2024, surrounded by family. She is the loving mother of Caroline (Tim) Tess, and Dear grandmother of Christine (Ronnie) Schwaegler, Nathan (Claire) Tess, Nick Tess and Alex Tess. Eliane is preceded in death by her divorced husband James Elium, her sister Gisele (Thiebaud) Tetu, and parents Charles and Marie-Louise Thiebaud.
Eliane grew up in France, experienced the tragedy of war, and was orphaned at an early age. She came to the US as the bride of a US Air Force Officer. She lived in many US states while her husband built a career in the US Veterans Administration, finally settling in Elmhurst over 50 years ago.
Eliane spent her time as a housewife and caretaker to many children. Maybe even more than her independence, she enjoyed caring for small children, helping to raise her grandchildren, and maintaining her yard. She loved to knit and made many baby booties for family and friends.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst, 60126. A memorial service will be held during visitation at 6 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Salesian Missions (salesianmissions.org) which operates the orphanage in France where Eliane attended.
Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL. For info, (630) 834 – 3515, or www.ElmhurstFH.com.
