In Memoriam: Elaine Sanderson

BY Amritha

Elaine Sanderson (Jan. 28, 1920 – Sept. 13, 2019) Photo provided by Lynda Hoffman

Elaine was born in Detroit, Michigan, to Fred and Estelle Sturm. Her family moved to Springfield, Ohio, where she went on to graduate from Springfield High School in 1938. She attended Slack Cosmetology School and graduated in 1939. She moved to California in 1954.

Elaine married in 1941 and had two daughters, Lynda and Susan. In 1970, Elaine moved with her husband to Canyon Lake. In 1987, her daughter Lynda, son-in-law Jeff and grandson Brian Hoffman joined her in Canyon Lake.

In 1980 Elaine was crowned the first Mrs. Canyon Lake as she won the judges’ favor with her talented and beautiful voice. She was a charter and active member of the Canyon Lake Community Church where she poured her love into so many children while she taught Sunday school for 20 years and sang in the church choir.

Elaine continued to sing as a member of the Canyon Lake Choraleers for many years. She led the music as a volunteer at the Kay Ciscineros Senior Center for the elderly and for MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) in Canyon Lake.  

Elaine loved her participation with philanthropy work in the Canyon Lake Woman’s Club and her social time in the Garden Club. She actively played bridge in several bridge groups and was dedicated to her weekly Bible Study that was so dear to her.

Elaine is survived by her daughters Lynda Hoffman and Susan Severance, her grandson Brian Hoffman and his wife Janice Hoffman, Kevin Severance and his wife Wendy, Greg Severance, Christopher Severance, her great-grandchildren Kinsley Hoffman, Tara Severance and Rory Severance and her two nieces Stella Mowery and Evie Becker.

Elaine was known and loved by many. She was a beautiful, fun, loving and extremely giving woman that developed many meaningful relationships in her life. She gave so much of herself to those in the community, her friends and family. She was blessed by all who were in her life and she blessed us all in return.

Services will be on Nov. 9 at 1 p.m. in the chapel at Canyon Lake Community Church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to a charity of your choice.