Elaine J. (Lokker) Nettles, R.N.

Mrs. Elaine J. (Lokker) Nettles, R.N., age 84, passed away on Friday, March 23, 2007, at the Masonic Care Community of NY. Born in Holland, Michigan on November 2, 1922, Elaine was the daughter of the late Henry and Nellie (Beaukema) Lokker. Raised and educated in Michigan, she graduated from Holland High School in 1940. She pursued her Nursing degree at the Butterworth Nursing School. She then joined the Army and attended their nursing program, as well as being the recipient of a Bachelor of Arts Degree and 2 Masters Degrees in Nursing. On June 14, 1946 she married Earl William Nettles, Sr., a career Army officer, with whom she shared 48 years until his passing in 1994. As partners who were supportive of each other’s dreams and desires, they held an equal place in their marriage. An altruistic woman born to serve humanity, Elaine always wanted to help others and did so in her chosen nursing career which was her life’s calling. It allowed her to make a difference throughout her numerous and varied positions, lastly working at the Army Hospital in Ft. Hood, Texas. As a civilian nurse, she garnered great accomplishments and honors for her leadership skills. She was a Member of the Eastern Star, active with the American Red Cross, and was also a nursing instructor. She was known to her loved ones as, “Locky”, a nickname affectionately bestowed by her husband. A reserved woman with her own style and grace, she was quite a lady. With a giving heart, she conferred many kind acts to those in need. She loved the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas and opened her home to many young soldiers who were unable to be with their own families. Her children were proud of her determination and strength of character, especially during her illness. In 2000 she relocated to Utica and joined the Masonic Home Care Community. She was very spiritual in the practice of her Methodist faith. Elaine is survived by her daughter, Sally J. Myers of Leavenworth, Kansas; her grandchildren, Brooke and Marc Van Wert, U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Colonel in Georgia; and her great-grandchildren, Ashland, and Lauren. Also surviving are her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great- nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by 2 sons, Patrick Henry Nettles, U.S. Navy, who was killed in active duty, and Earle William Nettles, Jr.; and her siblings, Homer Lokker, Chester Lokker, and Henrietta Dalman. The family extends thanks to the physicians and especially the nursing staff of Master Mason 2 and the Westchester Unit at the Masonic Care Community of NY for the incredible care and love they shared with Elaine. She also had important friendships and a special closeness with her caregivers Betsy and Roxanne that brought her great comfort. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Elaine’s honor to the Masonic Care Community of NY. Elaine’s Funeral Service and Celebration of Life will commence at a future time to be determined. Inurnment will take place at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Elaine J. (Lokker) Nettles, R.N.

November 2, 1922 - March 23, 2007