Elaine Ruth DeHarde

Elaine Ruth DeHarde, 94, of Grand Island, entered eternal rest on Friday, March 20, 2026. Celebration of Life Service will be at 10:30am Saturday, May 2nd at St. Pauls Lutheran Church. The Reverend Bill Pavuk will officiate. Burial of ashes will be in the Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. All Faiths Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Elaine was born on November 10, 1931, in Norfolk, Nebraska, to Carl and Elsie (Hoffman) Klentz. When she was nine years old, her family moved to a ranch in Wheeler County, where she was raised and educated. She graduated from Wheeler County High School in 1950, beginning a lifelong journey rooted in curiosity, education, and growth. Elaine began her career as a one-room schoolteacher, an experience that set the foundation for her deep commitment to education and students of all ages. She was truly a lifelong learner and educator, teaching at every level throughout her career. After her first year of teaching in Amelia, Nebraska, Elaine transferred to Hall County Schools, where she taught for several years. She later served as Director of the Title I Program for Grand Island Public Schools before becoming principal at Lincoln Elementary, Dodge Elementary and Seedling Mile Elementary. Following those roles, Elaine taught at Hastings College for seven years, sharing her passion for learning until her retirement. Beyond the classroom, Elaine embraced life with confidence, curiosity, and quiet independence. She forged her own path at a time when that was not always customary, carrying herself with grace and self-assurance throughout her life. Elaine loved to dance and travel, always eager for new experiences and adventures. Elaine had a keen eye for detail, and her sense of style was a reflection of her creativity, confidence, and joy for life. Elaine was first married to Bill Dallegge in 1952, and they shared ten years together until his passing in 1962. On February 20, 1971, she was united in marriage to Norman DeHarde, with whom she shared many cherished years. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Renae (Thad) Haes; two grandchildren, Lilly (Gunnar) Vanek and Logan Haes; great-grandson Everett; nieces and nephews, Jean (Sargent) Kilcoin, Lenny Sargent, Roy Sargent; extended family and friends. Elaine was preceded in death by her husbands, Norman DeHarde and Bill Dallegge; her parents; her brother, Donald Klentz; her sister, Ardith Sargent; and her nephew, Dennis Sargent and great-niece, Michelle Sargent. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Shriners Hospital for Children-Twin Cities. Words of comfort and kindness may be left for the family at www.giallfaiths.com.

Elaine Ruth DeHarde

November 10, 1931 - March 20, 2026

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Elaine Ruth DeHarde

November 10, 1931 - March 20, 2026

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

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