Elaine Wilhelmina (Wohlk) Schoenhals, age 98, formerly of Almena, passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Cambridge Senior Living in Rice Lake, where she had lived for several years. She was born June 24, 1928, in Almena to Christ and Wilhelmina (Miller) Wohlk. Elaine was baptized July 15, 1928, by Pastor Fred Kuster and confirmed July 12, 1942, by Rev Klinkenberg at St. Matthew Lutheran Church.

She moved to Minneapolis and was married on September 30, 1953, to George Schoenhals, who preceded her in death on January 4, 2006. While living in Minneapolis, Elaine attended Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, taught VBS, attended Women Christian Service and served on the Altar Guild. After George retired in 1985, they moved back to Almena. They began attending St. Matthew Lutheran Church. Elaine served with the Ladies Aid and Circle, and did much volunteer work.

Elaine's working career spanned 2 years for Munsingwear in Barron; 1 year in Minneapolis; 3 years at 3M in Cumberland; and 30 years at Northrup King in Minneapolis.

She is survived by a stepson, Ted Schoenhals; granddaughter, Jeanie Schoenhals; sister, Nancy (Dean) Laube; sister-in-law, Jeannette Wohlk (Mike Swenson); Godchildren, Holly Nyhus, Jason Laube, and Jenelle Misselt; as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, George; brothers, Leslie, Calvin (Delores), Vernon, and Gilbert (Donna); and sister, Leona (Elmer) Mielke.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Almena, with Pastor Ike Nicholson officiating. Burial will be in St. Matthew Cemetery, Almena. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until the time of the service. Pallbearers are Jason Laube, Brad Nyhus, Vernon C. Wohlk, Bruce Wohlk, Kevin Wohlk, and Glen Wohlk. Honorary pallbearers are Darren, Travis, and Eric Nyhus.

Last Update: Aug 31, 2026 11:41 am CDT