Elaine Evelyn Prenovost
Elaine Evelyn Rickard Prenovost age 92, of Auburn, Washington passed away October 23, 2013 surrounded by her children.
Born April 7, 1921 in LaMoure, North Dakota to Emmett and Ellen (Everett) Rickard and came to Auburn in 1923 where she was raised by her mother and step father Alfred Goodhead. As a young woman she was a drum majorette. She loved dancing and spent her time in the dance halls where she met her husband George.
She graduated in 1938 from Auburn High School and later attended Seattle University. Married George H Prenovost Jr. January 9, 1942. They had 8 children together. She went on to work for Roberts and Small. Later she became the activity director of Green Acres Nursing home. She sold World Book encyclopedias to spread her love of knowledge. She worked on the election board for many years.
Elaine will be remembered as a benevolent member of the community. She was instrumental in starting the religious education program at Holy Family where she was a member for 70 years. Involved in Women’s Society and Pastoral Council, Co-President and charter member of St Francis Cabrini Circle, Member of Archdiocese Ecumenical Board, two terms as President of the Central Deanery. Member of first Parish Council in Holy Family Parish. Co-Founder and Director of Auburn and co-director of Tacoma Pregnancy Aid, Chairperson of Auburn Community Supper, Washington State president of Church Women United, Co-Founder of Friend to Friend, Chair of Auburn Coalition on Teen Pregnancy Prevention Board. She was very involved with her children’s activities while they were growing up. Cub Scouts, Campfire, and PTA. She was the recipient of several distinguished awards, including Auburn Hometown Hero, Auburn Citizen of the year, The Jefferson Award, The Valiant Women Award; she was also an Auburn “Good Ole Day’s” Princess.
Her greatest joys in life were her gardening and holidays, but most of all spending time with her family. She loved family dinners and celebrations. She loved having the young children around her while playing the piano and organ. She enjoyed live theater and was a season ticket holder at the 5th Avenue Theater. She leaves us with great loving memories and will always be in our hearts.
Elaine is Survived by Sons George III, James, Lee (Julianne), David (Jennifer), Neal Prenovost. Daughters Elizabeth (Dan) Irwin, Elaine (Doug) Small, Mary (Chris) Roe, 24 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 5 nieces and
1 nephew. She was preceded in death by her husband, George H. Prenovost Jr., her sister Evelyn Emerson and her nephew Rickard Emerson.
Vigil service Friday November 1st, 7pm at Holy Family Catholic Church in the Parish Center Chapel with viewing starting at 5pm. Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, November 2nd, 9am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 505 17th S.E. Auburn. With a reception following in the Church Hall. Interment, Gethsemane Cemetery, Federal Way.
Memorials may be made to Holy Family Catholic School Scholarship Fund at 505 17th S.E. Auburn, WA 98002 or Pregnancy Aid of Auburn at 517 F St SE – #1 Auburn, WA 98002. Please visit www.klontzfuneralhome.com for online guestbook.
