Elaine Voetberg

Elaine Voetberg, 72, of La Grande, died Saturday, July 24, 2021 at her home. A private family service will be held at a later date.

Elaine D. Makin came into the world on September 22, 1948 in Enterprise, Oregon.  She was the first child of Kelsie and Arlene Makin.  She grew up in this small town and graduated from Enterprise High School in 1966. 

Upon graduation, she moved to Spokane to attend Kinman Business University.  She then moved to Grand Coulee where she worked in the school district.

Elaine became active in the community by organizing fund raisers for the schools and local fire departments.  In 1979 she moved to La grande and went to work for Skip Bradley and Harold Laurence in the insurance business.  Elaine stayed with the business through several owners.  She was considered a mainstay of the field for her wealth of knowledge and humanity that touched the lives of people in 3 counties for nearly 40 years.

She met her husband Don in 1984 at J.I. Morgan company dinner. She came to this dinner with her sister and brother in law.

Elaine was an avid outdoors person, camper, gardener and cook.  She was famous for her specialty cakes that were often baked in unusual circumstances for her family which always came first and foremost. 

She was a loving wife, mother, auntie, and sister. Her positive outlook on life was infections.  Her gentleness and quiet strength touched everyone she met.  Elaine was never one to say, “Good Bye” she always said, “See ya later!”. 

Elaine is survived by her husband, Don Voetberg; stepsons, Don Dee Voetberg, Dwayne (Carol) Voetberg; sister Kathy(Lynn) Clary; brother Lynn Makin; nieces Melissa Keene, Jessica Nye; nephews Tyrel and Carson Makin; 8 grand nieces and nephews.

Online condolences can be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com