Elaine E. Toycen (Sparby)

It is with sadness and peace that we announce the passing of Elaine Eris Toycen. She was 91 years old, born on January 17, 1924 and preceded in death by husband LaVerne who died in 1997. She was born to Oscar and Evelen (Hanson) Sparby in Minneapolis, but spent most of her life in the Sand Creek, Wisconsin area.
A graduate of Colfax high school, Elaine then attended and graduated from Luther Hospital School of Nursing in Eau Claire. In 1945 she married LaVerne Toycen, a local farmer, auto and farm machinery dealer. He also graduated from Colfax High School and drove the school bus that carried Elaine and her sister to school. LaVerne and Elaine were devoted to each other in love and a companionship that lasted over fifty years.
After many years of raising her family, Elaine returned full-time to her nursing career. She completed her public health certification and worked as a public health nurse for over 20 years, first for Dunn County, and later as a school nurse for the Boyceville School District. Her Christian faith was at the very center of her life and she applied it as she followed the news and politics through radio, TV, newspapers and books. She had a curious mind with a bent for justice and service to the poor. This interest prompted her to travel on two separate occasions to Mexico visiting projects of Bread for the World and World Vision.
Elaine was a very positive person who encouraged others by her presence, wisdom and character. New Hope Lutheran Church in Sand Creek nurtured her faith and she in turn was a very active supporter and member. The quilter group was an especially important group to Elaine, doing something for others while enjoying each other’s friendship. She was a founding member of the Sand Creek Arts Board, generously giving time and money to nourish and expand the town’s facilities and social life.
In her last days, Elaine was surrounded and visited by family and friends. Her prayers often ended with these words, “Thank, thank you. Jesus.” Elaine and the Toycen Family would like to express their deepest appreciation for the outstanding care and support of the staff at the Colfax Health & Rehabilitation Center.
Elaine is survived by sisters: Dorean Arneson (John deceased), Renetta Kidder (Jack), Judy Anderson (Dave), brother: Orwin Sparby (Gertrude deceased), sister-in-law Irene Hanson (Melvin deceased). Children: Dave Toycen (Diane), Sue Favero (Jerry), Gail Weyerhaeuser (William) and Dan Toycen (Mary Lynn). Grandchildren: Jaymes Toycen (Linda deceased), Jocelyn LeDressay (Justin), Jason Lindquist, Joe Lindquist, Mark Favero (Deanna), Angela Favero Luchterhand (Daniel), Drew Weyerhaeuser, Ben Weyerhaeuser, Craig Toycen (Holly), John Toycen (Elizabeth), and Michael Toycen. Great Grandchildren: Emily & Rachel Toycen, Isaiah & Adrian Toycen, Brooklyn Lindquist, Kingston Favero, Caleb & Joshua LeDressay.
There will be a visitation on Thursday, January 14 from 4-7 PM at the Olson Funeral Home in Bloomer Wisconsin. A Memorial Service will be on Friday, January 15 at 1 PM New Hope Lutheran Church, Sand Creek Wisconsin. Private Interment will take place prior to the Memorial Service. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested for Luther Park Bible Camp or New Hope Lutheran Church.