Elaine Kay (Forland) Hofer-Thurston, 83, of Turtle Lake, died on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Touchmark, Bismarck, ND. Funeral service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Turtle Lake, on Tuesday September 16, 2025, at 10:30 AM. Burial will be in Turtle Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church on Monday, September 15, from 5:00-6:00PM with a prayer service at 6:00PM.

On March 6, 1942, a tiny 3-pound baby girl was born to Lester and Agnes Forland. Though she came into this world small enough to fit into a shoebox, Elaine's life would prove to be anything but small. From the very beginning, she had a determined spirit and left her mark on everyone she met. Growing up alongside her beloved siblings, Elaine's childhood was full of laughter, closeness, and bonds that would carry through her entire life.

Elaine grew up in Turtle Lake and graduated from Turtle Lake High School in 1960. Without bus service, she spent her high school years living away from home, working in family homes she stayed with, or bookkeeping at the local hospital to help along the way.

On February 10, 1962, she married the love of her life, Gene Hofer, and together they made their home in Turtle Lake. Their family grew with the arrival of their daughter, Kim, and son, Kory. Elaine and Gene's home was always filled with love, laughter, and the kind of warmth that made everyone feel welcome.

She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, serving on the council as well as a Sunday school Superintendent and teacher.

Elaine worked hard throughout her life — whether at the Bank of Turtle Lake, Mayer's Grocery Store, or the Turtle Lake Public School. She was never afraid to roll up her sleeves and take on a challenge. She broke barriers at Cooperative Power in Falkirk, ND, becoming the first female Plant Helper, running jackhammers when necessary and proving her grit every single day. Later, as District Clerk for the South McLean Soil Conservation District, Elaine found joy in teaching soil conservation practices to schools and farmers. Her dedication was recognized with the State District Clerk Award — an honor she treasured.

But Elaine was so much more than her work. She had a playful and creative spirit that shone brightest when she was with her family. From craft projects and puppet shows, to marathon games of canasta around the table, to being the "phone-a-friend" whenever someone needed a recipe or advice, Elaine's presence was woven into the everyday lives of those she loved. She had a contagious laugh, and a gift for making up words that would leave everyone laughing right alongside her. She was always willing to show up — whether flying out to help wallpaper a kitchen or simply lending an ear when someone needed her.

Elaine loved hosting gatherings, decorating cakes, baking Norwegian Kransekake, and creating traditions that her family will forever cherish. She had a way of making ordinary days special and turning challenges into adventures.

After Gene's passing, Elaine found love again and married Andrew Thurston on August 27, 2016. They made their home in Minot and enjoyed taking in car shows and parades. Wintering together in Mesa, Arizona where they made new friendships. In later years, Andy and Elaine shared their days at Touchmark, cherishing the simple joys of life together.

Family was always Elaine's greatest treasure. She was a devoted mother, stepmother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and nothing brought her more joy than time with her family. Her love was constant, steady, and deeply felt.

Elaine is survived by her husband, Andy; her daughter Kim (Bill) Erdmann; her son, Kory (CoCo) Hofer; her stepsons, Jeff (Debbie) Pool and Craig (Marcia) Pool; her grandchildren, Jordan (Sarah) Erdmann, Josh (Peyton) Erdmann, MaKena (Nick) Schaefer, and Zak Hofer (Michelle); and her great-grandchildren, Rio, Juniper, William, and four more great-grandchildren on the way. She also leaves behind her siblings, Joanne Rauh, Les (Wendy) Forland, Judy (Curt) Miller, Janet (Hank) Whittet. She is also remembered with love by many extended family and dear friends.

Elaine's life was one of love, resilience, humor, and generosity. She gave her heart freely, worked tirelessly, and always welcomed others with kindness. Her laughter, creativity, and warmth will echo in the memories of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, but forever remembered. Her story does not end here — it continues in the traditions she created, the joy she gave, and the generations who carry her love forward.