Elaine Plautz, age 72, passed away peacefully July 17, 2025, surrounded by her loving children.
Born March 13, 1953, Elaine lived a life filled with devotion to her family, hard work and a generous spirit. She attended Seward High School, graduating in 1971. Elaine married the love of her life, Gary Plautz, and together they raised three children. A dedicated homemaker and a hardworking machine operator, Elaine balanced both roles with strength and grace. Her family was always at the heart of everything she did.
Elaine’s greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren. She rarely missed a game, concert, or school event, always cheering the loudest from the sidelines. Her green thumb brought beauty to every garden she touched, and her kitchen was always filled with the smell of something delicious – especially her famous cakes. And no visit to Grandma’s house was complete without a stop at the legendary candy drawer – always stocked, always open, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Elaine faced life with quiet strength and determination, especially during her courageous battle with cancer. She fought with grace, resilience, and an unwavering love for her family, never letting her spirit be dimmed.
Elaine will be remembered for her kindness, her wisdom, her strength, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Her legacy lives on through the family she cherished and the many lives she touched.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Elaine is survived by her children, Stacy (Jeremy) Kopecky of Garland, and Scott (Tracy) Plautz of Lincoln; grandchildren, Karter, Keaton and Kysen Kopecky, and Sydney and Mason Plautz; siblings, George (Phyllis) Schaefer of Garland, Darlene (Leonard) Buresh of Lincoln, Tom (Dana) Schaefer of Garland, Diane (Cork) Wagenknecht of Garland, Mary Anne White of West Point, Art “Butch” (Jodi) Schaefer of Seward, and Rick (Melody) Schaefer of Garland; sister-in-law, Patricia Plautz of Lincoln; many nieces, nephews and a host of friends.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Margaret Schaefer; husband, Gary Plautz; son, Steve Plautz; brother, Jerry Schaefer; brothers-in-law, Jack White and Dennis Plautz; sister-in-law, Patricia Walker; nephew, Michael Wagenknecht; niece, Peggie Masek; and great nephew, Cameron Brecka.
A gathering of family and friends will be Tuesday, July 22, from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Seward. Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, July 23, at 10:30 a.m. at the church with committal following at the Seward Cemetery.
Arrangements by Volzke Funeral Home.
