Elaine Janette Thudin

Elaine Janette Thudin, 61, of Esko, Minn., passed away Tuesday, July 10, 2012, after a courageous battle with cancer. Elaine grew up and attended school in Proctor, Minn., graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 1972, and earned her master's degree in 1988 in reading interventions. Elaine married Randy Thudin on June 30, 1973, in Cloquet. During her 39-year career in Hermantown and Esko, Minn., she was a dedicated teacher of kindergarten, second grade and Title One. Her love of teaching was evident not only in her classroom on a day-to-day basis, but also in her creation of the pre-kindergarten program and innovations to the Title One programs at Esko, the latter of which was recognized by the state of Minnesota for excellence. She was both the vice president and lead negotiator, along with various other positions, in the Esko Teacher's Union. Elaine also taught Sunday school for many years and was a constant volunteer at all of her daughters' activities. Elaine's variety of passions led her family on many cross-country travel adventures and the family gatherings she hosted were always a highlight (always the house was beautifully decorated and the cooking exceptional). One of her greatest joys was intimate conversations with those close to her. Her unwavering faith in God and commitment to living each day to the fullest was an inspiration, and will be greatly missed.