Loretta Frances Elfline, 87, Hermann, passed away Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 at StoneBridge Senior Living in Hermann.
She was born April 3,1938, the daughter of the late Paul G. and Alberta L. (Hartman) Bruckerhoff in McKittrick.
She was united in marriage to Milferd R. “Jake” Elfline April 14, 1956, at St. Joseph’s Church in Rhineland. Together they shared 61 years of marriage. Jake preceded her in death Feb. 23, 2018.
Loretta was a member of St. Paul’s Church in Berger.
She had worked for American Recreation Products in New Haven as well as running a daycare in her home for many years, where she enjoyed taking care of the children she watched.
In her free time, Loretta also enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, doing puzzles, playing cards and dancing.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Milferd; parents,Paul and Alberta; brother, LeRoy Bruckerhoff; sister, Eleanora Ebker; granddaughter, Jill Elfline; and great-grandson, Elijah Garner.
Loretta is survived by her children, Milferd R. Elfline Jr. and wife Michelle, Donald J. Elfline and David W. Elfline and wife Jennifer, all of Hermann, Lori A. Heichel and husband Steven of Overland Park, Kan., Robert D. Elfline and wife Jennifer of Rosebud and Vicki L. Held and husband Andrew of Independence; sisters-in-law, Wanda Menke and Juanita Elfline; 14 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date at St. Paul’s Church in Berger.
Memorial contributions suggested to Hermann Area Crusade Against Cancer.
Arrangements entrusted to Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home in Hermann.
