Born Elaine Marie Benson on March 12, 1924, to Ernest and Alice Benson in Franklin County near Upland NE, she grew up on a farm with her 3 brothers and one sister. Elaine graduated from Upland High in 1942.
After graduation, Elaine moved to Lincoln to live with her aunt and uncle and attend Lincoln School of Commerce. During this time, she began to attend First Christian Church and it was there she met her future husband Louis “Bud” Lehl who had recently finished military service in Japan. Bud and Elaine were married on March 14, 1948. They enjoyed a great life in Lincoln, being active members in their Church, and making many lifelong friends.
Bud and Elaine owned Stroh-Lehl floor covering store for years and Elaine was key in working with Bud in the store. Her hobbies were gardening, bowling, sewing and she had a passion for the Nebraska sports and her beloved St. Louis Cardinals. Bud and Elaine enjoyed many travels overseas in their later years.
Bud died in 1995. Elaine then became a Master Gardener, a volunteer at the Sunken Garden, and a greeter at her church.
Elaine is survived by a brother, Dalton Benson of Fremont, three children, Shirlayne (Robert) Huber of Lincoln, David (Barb) Lehl of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Kirk (Lorri) Lehl of Lincoln.
10 Grandchildren- Nathan Schmidt (Jeanine), Natalie Cunningham (Brett), Nadia Schmidt, Harris Lehl, Hannah Ahlstedt, Laura Sypal (Kevin), Timothy Lehl (Cari), Tony Lehl (Brandi), Jamison Lehl, Corey Lehl
14 Great Grandchildren – James Ahlstedt, Cameron Ahlstedt, Jack Ahlstedt, Claire Sypal, Isla Sypal, Frederick Sypal, Margot Sypal, Benjamin Sypal, Philip Sypal, Deegan Cunningham, Aidan Cunningham, Rylan Cunningham, Kai Lehl, Madison Lehl.
The family wishes memorials in Elaine's name to the Lincoln Parks Foundation for The Sunken Garden (3131 O Street Suite 301, Lincoln, NE 68510), or to First Christian Church (430 South 16th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508).
