Elaine Hettrich (Fosgett), 91, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 24, 2026, at Greenfields of Geneva under the compassionate care of JourneyCare Hospice. Ever the devoted Chicago Cubs fan, Elaine arrived in heaven just in time for Opening Day-no doubt ready to use her lifelong loyalty to pull a few strings for her favorite team.

Born in Harrison, Michigan, to Wayne and Rachael Fosgett, Elaine moved to Illinois after junior high. A proud graduate of Oswego High School (and the Class of 1952 Homecoming Queen), she went on to complete her nurse's training (RN) at Copley Hospital and then earn her degree from Aurora University.

In true storybook fashion, Elaine literally married the boy next door, George Hettrich, and felt blessed to have 66 years with the love of her life until his passing in 2022. Together, they built a life centered on family and a shared love of travel, visiting every state, more than 50 countries and all seven continents.

Elaine found deep fulfillment in caring for others as a nurse. She began her career working evenings as a floor nurse at Copley Hospital and later spent 25 years as a school nurse in Oswego Community School District 308. There, she pioneered a Health Occupations program that inspired students to pursue careers in healthcare-a legacy that lives on in those she mentored.

A devoted member of Oswego Presbyterian Church for more than 50 years, Elaine served as an Elder, Deacon, and longtime bell choir member. She loved gardening, entertaining, and especially supporting her grandchildren at countless basketball, football, and lacrosse games, as well as dance recitals and performances. She was also a member of P.E.O., Chapter BT.

She is survived by her daughters, Shirley Klupchak (Bill) and Joyce Kafer (Jim); five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; her sister, Audrey Fechner (Jim); and sisters-in-law, Joy Fosgett and Vernita Hettrich. She was preceded in death by her husband, George; her parents; her sister, Eleanor Warren; her brother, David Fosgett; and her brothers-in-law, Laird Hettrich and Gordon Hettrich.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Memorials may be made to Oswego Presbyterian Church, 1976 State Route 25, Oswego, IL 60543. Arrangements are entrusted to Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, Illinois 60543. For information, visit www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com.