Elaine Rice

Elaine Rice (Mabel Elaine Rice) passed away on June 7, 2025, surrounded by her family in Coeur d’Alene, ID. Elaine was born on September 16, 1930, the daughter of Clayton and Mabel Cope in Star, Idaho. Elaine grew up on a dairy farm in Star, where she also attended school.

Elaine attended the University of Idaho, earning a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics. After graduation, Elaine worked for Washington Water Power as a home economist. She later taught home economics at North Central High School in Spokane, WA.

Elaine married Loren Charles Rice, on February 6, 1954. Sixty-seven years of marriage were filled with love, laughter, friends and family. Upon the birth of their first child, Elaine chose to raise her family without working outside the home.

Elaine is survived by her children; sons, Wade (Patti) and Kyle (Connie); daughter, Ann (Wayne); nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and sisters, Sharon (Don) and Virginia (Gary). Elaine’s husband, Loren, preceded her in death in 2021. Elaine’s grandchildren have fond memories of the adventures they shared with their grandparents. Family was extremely important to Elaine.

Community service was a passion for Elaine. She was a 67-year member of P.E.O., a women’s organization that promotes education for women. Elaine believed in the power of education. Elaine also served many years on the Great Falls Salvation Army Auxiliary Board ensuring families had necessary provisions for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. She was honored multiple times for her work on the board. Elaine was active in her children’s lives as a Girl Scout leader, a Cub Scout leader, sports mom and in daily life. She never missed her children’s activities or celebrations even into their adult lives. New Hope Lutheran Church was a fixture in Elaine’s life, attending weekly services and her beloved church friends was something she truly missed after moving to Coeur d’Alene.

Elaine was an accomplished knitter, quilter and seamstress; she leaves a legacy of her love in the quilts, needle projects and the many sweaters and afghans she created for others.

Elaine lived life to the fullest sharing her gifts with her community, her friends and her family. She was loved by all and will truly be missed.

A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025, at New Hope Lutheran Church (3125 5th Avenue South, Great Falls, Montana).

Condolences may be shared online at www.SchniderFuneralHome.com