Elaine Marilyn Hallenberger, 82, of Owatonna, died Saturday, May 30, 2009 at Owatonna Hospital. She was born August 30, 1926, in Owatonna, the daughter of William and Georgia (Slezak) Klecker. Elaine graduated from Owatonna High School in 1944. She worked for Federated Insurance during and after high school, eventually becoming the Department Head of the Policy Department. Elaine Klecker married John Hallenberger June 6, 1948, at St. John Lutheran Church in Owatonna. In 1951, she quit working at Federated Insurance to raise a family. After raising her children she worked part time at the Owatonna Canning Company, Owatonna Mutual Insurance Co. and Heinz Insurance Agency until retiring in 1999. She was a 50-year member of the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW during which time she served as the President and First District President. Elaine also participated in the Elk's Ladies Card Club and was a member of St. John Lutheran Church. She enjoyed traveling with her husband, making Kolaches with her daughter for the farmer's market, and many other family activities. Elaine also enjoyed bowling, playing bridge, bingo, golf, gardening, watching the Minnesota Twins and making crafts. She is survived by her daughters, Nancy (and special friend Del Jones) Hallenberger of Owatonna, Susan Hallenberger of Denver, Jill Hallenberger of Vadnais Heights; nieces, Judith Matlock of Salem, OR, Debra Klecker of Yakima, WA; grandnephews, Scott Matlock, Jeremy Matlock, Michael Klecker; grandniece, Heather Matlock; great grandnephew, Michael Klecker; special friends, Stan and Kathy Honsey and family. Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, infant son, parents, brother and a nephew. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Wednesday from 4-8pm with a VFW Ladies Auxiliary service at 7:30pm and at St. John Lutheran Church on Thursday from 1-2pm. Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 2:00pm at St. John Lutheran Church with Pastor Dave Klawiter officiating. Interment will be in the St. John Cemetery in Owatonna. Visitation: 06/03/2009 16:00 06/03/2009 20:00 Service: and one hour prior to the service at the church. 06/04/2009 14:00