Elaine A. Hruby, 89, died peacefully in her home, Thursday, January 14, 2016 after a long illness. Elaine was born July 4, 1926 to Joseph E. and Erna C. (Holz) Denz in Chicago. Elaine married her college sweetheart, Donald J. Hruby on June 10, 1950 in Chicago. She was a graduate of Austin High School in Chicago and Northern Illinois State Teachers College in DeKalb. Majoring in Social Studies and English, Elaine went on to teach at Kankakee High School, Bridgeport Elementary School and at the elementary level in Arlington Heights. Elaine was also active in supporting religious education, the Girl Scouts, The Arlington Heights Library, and the Northwest Suburban Community Concerts Program. Elaine was an avid reader and instilled the love of literature in her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed hosting friends and family, traveling, gardening, bridge, history and geography. Elaine was known for her warm personality, great sense of humor and skill as a storyteller. Above all, Elaine enjoyed her role as a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

Elaine is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald; and grandson, Joseph P. Connor.

Surviving are her children, Kathleen (Dennis) Connor of Rochelle, IL; Linda (Richard Twitchell) Hruby of Gurnee, IL; and Joe (Bruce Elsass) Hruby of Woodbury, CT; two grandchildren: Meghan (Jim) Purcell and Chris Connor, two great-grandchildren: Connor and Hudson Purcell; and sister, Joan Smith.

The Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 A.M., Monday, January 18, 2016 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 236 Kelley Drive, Rochelle with Father Johnson Lopez officiating. The visitation will also be on Monday from 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. prior to the funeral. Burial will follow the service at Lawnridge Cemetery in Rochelle. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church or Serenity Hospice and Home. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the on line guest book.