IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Elaine
Reller
August 28, 1960 – October 11, 2025
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Elaine Reller, who left us peacefully on October 10, 2025, at the age of 65 with her husband by her side. Born on August 28, 1960, in Deadwood, SD, to Alvin and Arlys (Ness) Janke, Elaine grew up surrounded by love as the second of five children, joining her older sister Donna and brother Harold, and later welcoming her younger sister Jolene and brother Allen.
Elaine's life was full of warmth, devotion, and a good amount of sass. A proud 1978 graduate of Lead High School, she embraced a variety of roles throughout her life, including many years as a waitress, where her bright smile and kind heart left lasting impressions. Her true calling, however, came in 2016 when she became "Nana" to her first granddaughter, Millie. In 2019, Elaine and her beloved husband, Niel (Spike) Reller, whom she married on December 16, 1988, returned to the Lead, where she poured her love into caring for her granddaughters, Alivia and Aspen. These three girls were the light of her life, and her role as their devoted Nana brought her immeasurable joy.
Elaine found delight in life's simple pleasures: the excitement of playing bingo, the peace of watching blue jays outside, working in the yard, and cheering for her Green Bay Packers. Her vibrant spirit and unwavering love touched everyone around her, leaving a legacy of kindness and laughter.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin and Arlys Janke; her sister, Jolene Daiker; her brother, Harold Janke; and her sister, Donna Coons. She is survived by her devoted husband, Niel Reller of Lead, SD; her son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Amanda Reller of Lead, SD, and their daughters, Alivia and Aspen; her daughter and son-in-law, Kayla and Derrick Peterson of Pollock, SD, and their daughter, Millie; her brother, Allen Janke; and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews who will forever hold her memory dear.
A celebration of Elaine's life will be held at Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel on Friday, October 17th, 2025 at 10am. Visitation will be held at 9am prior to the service. Interment will follow at the Oakridge Cemetery, Deadwood, SD. Lunch to follow at the VFW in Deadwood, SD.
Elaine's love will continue to shine in the hearts of her family and friends, especially her precious granddaughters. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the warmth and joy she so freely shared.
Celebration of Life
Lead-Deadwood Memorial Chapel
Starts at 10:00 am
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