Elaine Peters

Honoring her wishes, cremation has taken place. She will be interred in the spring of 2026 in her childhood home cemetery in Chassell, with details to be shared at a time closer to the date. 

Elaine was born Oct. 27, 1938, in Chassell, to the late Neilo and Impi (Sauvola) Lakanen. Elaine lived a life filled with grace, love, and a passion for the simple joys around her.

After graduating from Chassell High School, she eventually relocated to the Lower Peninsula, raised her family and reintroduced herself to the workforce with her 30+ year career at Bronner’s, where she worked in the accounts payable department.  

She was an accomplished bowler, an avid reader and faithfully acted as a chauffeur and cheerleader for her children’s many activities.  

Following her retirement from Bronner’s, she enjoyed her home life, where she could often be seen tooling around on her lawn mower and puttering in her flowerbeds. She was faithful, dedicated and loyal to her family, friends and those close to her. 

Surviving are her children, Patti (John) Collins of Wichita, Kansas, Pamela Black of Birch Run, and Ray “Chip” (Ann) Peters of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandchildren, Kyle Black (Megan), Jack Collins, Jason Collins, Lacey Garcia, and Shanna Garcia; and great grandchildren, Macie Black, Mackenzie Buffone, Maggie Buffone, Mari Elena Garcia, Janessa Garcia, Kalina Garcia and Leeli Garcia; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins; and faithful friends, Linda and Lala.

She was preceded in passing by her parents, Neilo and Impi Lakanen; sister, Lorraine Lassila; and brother-in-law, Fred Lassila.

Elaine will be buried in the spring of 2026 in her childhood home cemetery in Chassell, where she will join many relatives, in-laws and friends.