ELKHART -- Elaine I. Drexler, 91, died at 12:50 a.m. Saturday (Dec. 20, 2008) at Greenleaf Living Center after an extended illness.

She was born Dec. 17, 1917, in South Bend to Harry Hardman and Gladys Hostetler.

She married Rudy M. Drexler Sr. on Nov. 7, 1936, in South Bend. He died Feb. 26, 1993 in Elkhart.

She is survived by two sons, John (Eilene) Drexler and Rudy (Pat) Drexler Jr., both of Elkhart; one daughter, Trudy (Bob) Battjes of Elkhart; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by one son, Edward T. Drexler.

Mrs. Drexler was secretary and treasurer of Custom Booth Corp., which she and her husband owned until their retirement in 1981. She was a graduate of South Bend Riley High School and an active member of St. John's Episcopal Church, where she served as Altar Guild directress for many years. She enjoyed gardening, with violets being her favorite flower.

Friends may call for one hour prior to the 11 a.m. memorial service on Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church, 226 W. Lexington Ave., Elkhart. The Rev. Sally Weaver will officiate. Cremation has taken place, with burial at Rice Cemetery in Elkhart to take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials my be given to St. John's Episcopal Church or the Elkhart County Humane Society, 54687 C.R. 19, Bristol.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., assisted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.