Elaine Ruth Naatz, 83, of rural Austin, Minnesota, died Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, at Mayo Clinic Hospital-Rochester, Saint Marys Campus.

She was born June 8, 1933, in Austin, the daughter of Eric and Ruth (Lien) Naatz. Elaine was a lifelong resident of the area and was a caregiver for her parents and other family members. She also volunteered her time as a helper and chauffeur for her friends Josephine and Florence. She was a hard worker who was particular about her lawn care and keeping her car clean. Elaine was like a second mom to her nieces and nephew.

She was a faithful, lifetime member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Waltham where she volunteered her time. She served as secretary and chairman and worked on projects with the “Hustling Homemakers.” Over the years, Elaine worked at Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in Faribault, Minnesota, and Truth Hardware in Owatonna, Minnesota. She will be dearly missed.

Elaine is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Nathan and Norma Naatz of rural Austin; her nieces, Kim (Richard) Nelson, Diane (Bill) Meek, Karen (Willie) Naatz; nephew, Duane (Connie) Naatz; great-nephews, Steven and Dylan VanBuskirk, Tyler and Blake Naatz, Jon (Jessi) Meek and their children Axel and Maverick; Tristin, Trace, Brodee and Wyatt Naatz; cousins, and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her great-nephew, Joshua Naatz.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 16, 2017, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waltham with the Rev. Jesse Krusemark officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in Trinity Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.