FERN-ELLIENE DOROTHY RAINEY (nee McDonald), age 91, of Hobart, IN, coming from LaCrosse and Gary, IN, passed away Friday, March 29, 2013. Fern was born in LaCrosse on December 14, 1921 to Martin V. and Florence C. McDonald who preceded her in death along with three brothers, two sisters, and stepson, Ralph Lloyd Elrod. She graduated from LaCrosse High School where she studied painting all four years and has also studied painting under several well-known artists. On September 8, 1941 she was united in marriage with Ralph L. Rainey who preceded her in death May 9, 2000. Fern was a member of Marquette Park United Methodist Church in the Miller section of Gary where she was a former member of the Chancel Choir, assisted with the intermediate and junior choirs. A 60-year member of Olive Chapter No. 396 Order of Eastern Star, receiving her fifty year pin in 2003. She was past Matron, past Deputy, former Grand Representative of O.E.S. As a member of Steel City Court No. 20 she served as Royal Matron and also Grand Royal Matron of the Indiana Grand Court Order of the Amaranth. She is now affiliated with Crown Court No. 23 O.of A. She organized and became the first president of the Aetna Homemakers Club, was Brownie Scout leader for several years, and instructed Pastel and Oil painting for several years. Painting was her most cherished hobby and she also enjoyed fishing and camping.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Marquette Park United Methodist Church or the American Diabetes Association.

Fern is survived by her son, Robert Thomas (Carol J.) Rainey of Portage; daughters, Barbara Anne (Mary) Rainey and Sally Lee Rainey both of Lexington, KY; daughter-in-law, Hether Elrod of Tacoma, WA; 5 grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, nine step great grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren; several cousins, nieces and nephews and many cherished friends.

Visitation for Fern will be Thursday, April 4, 2013 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Marquette Park United Methodist Church, 215 N. Grand Blvd., Gary, 46403. There will be an Order of the Amaranth service at 4:30 p.m. and an Eastern Star Service at 4:45 p.m. Funeral service will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor Sharon Baker and Pastor Michelle Cobb officiating. Services will conclude at the church. Rees Funeral Homes, Hobart Chapel handling arrangements, (219) 942-2109 or online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.