Elnora B. Messenger, age 86, of 3512 K. Road, Bark River (Ford River), died early morning Saturday October 22, 2005, following a lengthy illness, at the Christian Park Village Health Care Facility, in Escanaba, where she had been residing.

Elnora was born November 2, 1918 in Clarno, WI, the daughter of Jake and Jesse (Hughes) Tschabold.  At an early age, Elnora and her family relocated to Durand, IL.  Elnora was raised in Durand and attended and graduated from the Durand High School.  On February 14, 1942, Elnora married Gilbert “Buck” Messenger in Monroe, WI.  Elnora and Gilbert spent many years in Illinois before relocating to the Ford River area in 1989.  Elnora had a great faith in the Lord.  She lived her faith, teaching by example to be the kind of wife and mother spoke of in Proverbs 31:10-31.  In addition to her interest in learning the teachings of the Bible, Elnora spent many hours sewing, embroidering and baking.  But mostly, Elnora will be remembered for the beautiful quilts she made by hand.  Elnora belonged to the Escanaba Church of Christ and all will remember her for her eagerness to always lend a helping hand, her positive attitude and the joy she took in her family. 

“Her children arise and call her blessed.” (Proverbs 31:28)

Elnora is survived by: 

Her husband of 63 years, Gilbert

1 Son:  Ronald (Mary) Messenger of Ford River, MI

1 Daughter:  Joyce (Gary) Keller of Evansville, WI

1 Sister in law:  Viola “Babe” Tschabold of Rapid River, MI

Also surviving are 7 Grandchildren, 20 Great Grandchildren, 1 Great-Great Grandchild and many Nieces, Nephews and Cousins. 

In addition to her parents, Jake and Jesse, Elnora was preceded in death by:

4 Brothers:  Alex, James, William and Robert Tschabold

3 Sisters:  Lenora Tschabold, Margaret Waller and Marion Place

Family will receive friends on Tuesday from 12:00PM to 1:00PM at the Skradski-Boyce Funeral Home in Escanaba.  Funeral services celebrating the life of Elnora Messenger will follow visitation, at 1:00PM, at the Skradski-Boyce Funeral Home, with David Grant of the Church of Christ, in Soo Hill, officiating.  Committal will be at the Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells following funeral services.  Luncheon will follow committal rites.  Contributions, in Elnora’s name, may be directed to the American Alzheimer’s Association.  Envelopes will be made available at the funeral home.