Elaine Dorothea Tharman, a beloved member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, was called home to be with her heavenly Father on March 21, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Elaine was born on July 26, 1940, in Milwaukee to her proud parents Harold and Lillie Hirschmann, Elaine's life was filled with love, compassion, and talent. Elaine grew up in Milwaukee and graduated from Bay View High School in 1958. She was also a member of the Lutheran Acapella choir of Milwaukee; and it was there where she met her forever love, Richard Tharman.

Directly out of high school, Elaine got a job as the secretary at Badger Mutual Insurance Company in Milwaukee and subsequently worked as the secretary at Ladish Malting also in Milwaukee.

On October 29, 1966, she entered into a joyous union with her soulmate Richard at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. Together, they shared a lifetime of love and cherished memories until Richard's passing on November 30, 2018.

After they wed, Elaine and Richard moved up from Milwaukee and made West Bend their forever home. It was here where they raised their beautiful family and found a great network of friends and careers. Elaine's commitment to serving others was exemplified through her devoted career spanning 27 years at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in West Bend. As the church and school secretary, she touched the lives of countless children and nurtured strong relationships with her Christian colleagues. Elaine found immense joy in the opportunity to work alongside others in spreading love and faith. In her leisure time, Elaine would immerse herself in her creative pursuits. She possessed a remarkable talent for quilting, meticulously sewing pieces that would bring warmth and comfort to anyone fortunate enough to receive them, especially her children and grandchildren. Her passion for solving jigsaw puzzles kept her mind sharp. Additionally, Elaine's handcrafted cards, lovingly made for her friends and family, served as a constant reminder of her thoughtfulness and affection. She enjoyed spending time in the company of her special longtime friends.

Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Elaine will be deeply missed, but we are glad she is now reunited with her Lord, and soulmate, Richard.

Elaine's memory will forever be cherished by her loving family, including her children, Mark (Lori) Tharman of West Bend, James “Jim” Tharman of Rhinelander, and John (Sheryl) Tharman of Woodruff; grandchildren, Valarie (Pastor Jason) Threlkeld, Brandon (Emily) Tharman, Lillian Tharman, and Melanie (Jonathan) Engel, Britini (Pastor Ethan) Boese, and Vanessa, Katie, and Tyler Tharman; as well as her great-grandchildren, Jeremiah, Rosalie, Gabriel, and Jasmynne Threlkeld, Evelyn, Eliza, and Bennett Boese, and Jack Tharman. She is further survived by her sister, Carol (Robert) Schmuki; and sister-in-law, Carol Schumacher.

Preceding Elaine in death include her husband and parents; her granddaughter in infancy, Janelle Tharman; and her brothers, Paul, Robert (Irene), and Thomas Hirschmann.

VISITATION: A time to remember Elaine's life will be on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in West Bend. Friends, family, and all who were touched by Elaine's presence are invited to attend and share in the memories of a remarkable woman.

SERVICE: A funeral service will follow the visitation at the church, beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Robert Hein officiating the service. Elaine will be entombed in Washington County Memorial Park following the service on Wednesday.

As Elaine’s late husband Richard was instrumental in the founding and expansion of Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School, donations would be greatly appreciated to continue the strong tradition of education there. Additional donations would be appreciated to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, a place where Elaine found a great sense of peace and friendship.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the Pastors and the teachers she worked with for many years from Good Shepherd for their devotions and prayers.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Elaine’s arrangements. Additional information and Tribute Wall may be found at myrhum-patten.com.