Marguerite 'Elaine' Weidner

Mom, “Elaine,” was a colorful, beautiful woman who loved life, had many friends, relished dressing up in evening gowns to attend dances and events, hosted great parties, and was loved dearly by her family.

She was born in Washington Heights, New York, to Sally and Everett Reid, immigrants from Ireland and Canada. From Nana, she received her Catholic faith. From Grandpa, a love for adventure, appreciation for the finer things in life, and a desire to travel.

Mom graduated from a specialized Catholic business high school, which had a selective admission process. She was an accomplished student who earned the distinction of being one of the fastest and most accurate stenographers. While still in high school, she began modeling for Saks Fifth Avenue fashions and White Rain hairspray. That experience shaped her love for the finer things in life - beautiful clothing, parties, and dances. After graduation, her secretarial, writing, proof reading and stenography skills were put to use at Hearst Newspapers and Young & Rubicam Advertising. She was reportedly the youngest administrative professional hired to support vice presidents at both companies.

In her early 20s, she divorced her first husband and relocated to California with her first born, Steven, to work for a renowned trial attorney. After that time, she took a secretarial job at McDonnell Douglas, an aerospace firm. She excelled there and also won beauty pageants hosted to commemorate the launch of new airplanes. It was during that time that she met Pete Weidner, who was an engineer working in the same division. After dating only six months, they married and began their life together. Their family grew to include David, Dede, and Laurie. Once Laurie entered kindergarten, she began working at California State University, Fullerton, where she had a long and distinguished career. She retired as Emeritus, serving as the first non-faculty member to earn this distinction for exemplary service.

On a personal note, she enjoyed spending time with family. When the children were young, weekends were often spent with Nana in Long Beach, visiting Belmont Shores, and enjoying Sunday suppers. The family enjoyed boating and water skiing, a sport she too took up in her 40s. The family also enjoyed camping, visiting Cedar Lake, and other local destinations with the occasional boating/camping trip to northern California. She loved the arts, especially musicals, and introduced all the children to the arts at young ages.

After retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her nine grandchildren, traveling the world with Pete, spending time with friends, participating in events and activities at various Elk’s Lodges, camping in their RV, and dancing weekly at El Patio.

Pete died of Covid 19 and pre-existing health conditions in 2021 after 62 years of marriage.

Mom is survived by David, Dede, and Laurie, nine grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

Mom, we are happy you have been reunited with Dad in heaven and are also surrounded by family and friends who have entered God’s kingdom before you. Thank you for your love and support of our family. You are forever in our hearts. We love you.