Elaine Turcanski Reiter was born on June 6, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to William and Ruth Turcanski. She was raised in Salt Lake City alongside her two brothers, Jim and Phillip. After graduating from Highland High School, Elaine attended the Steven Henagar School of Business.
On June 6, 1967, she married the love of her life, Jeep Reiter. Soon after, they began building their family. Over the years, Elaine worked many jobs, but the one she treasured most was being a stay-at-home mother. She was endlessly giving, always putting her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren first and rarely thinking of herself.
Elaine made sure dinner was always waiting and her family was always taken care of . She took great pride in keeping a clean home, and her children and grandchildren lovingly teased her about how much Windex she went through.
Elaine loved to relax by watching Shark Tank, Everybody Loves Raymond, Blue Bloods, Lawrence Welk, her soap operas — especially The Young and the Restless — and she especially loved watching The Price Is Right with Jeep.
She had a special gift for making the holidays magical, filling her home with decorations, laughter, and plenty of food for everyone. The traditions she created have been passed down through generations and continue to live on through her children and grandchildren today.
Elaine’s love for others, her warm conversations, and her endless stories were a gift to all who knew her. Her humor and carefree spirit lit up every room she entered, leaving behind countless beautiful memories that will be cherished forever.
Elaine returned to the arms of her eternal companion, Jeep Reiter, at the age of 79. She is survived by her children: Lisa Burrell (Jesse), Christian Reiter (Tiffany), Steven Reiter (Sammi), and Katharine Reiter; 16 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on January 20, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:45 pm at Valley View Memorial Park & Funeral Home, located at 4335 West 4100 South, West Valley City, UT 84120.
The funeral service will follow on the same day from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the same location.
