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Elaine Capra Obituary
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Elaine was a talent in so many ways, often sharing her gifts with others, inspiring those around her through her strength, resilience, and style. She was born September 14, 1923 in Alpha, Michigan, the eldest girl of 8 children to Lawrence and Irene Vassar. Elaine's family resided in Florence, Wisconsin in a small dirt floored cabin.
Elaine studied cosmetology and went on to marry Donald Tramontin in February of 1947. They welcomed three beautiful daughters together and lived on the North Side of Iron Mountain prior to moving to Moon Lake, often enjoying the company of friends and neighbors in their home. Elaine owned her own salon, as well as a clothing store in Iron Mountain, bringing the latest styles and fashions to the area. Her hobbies included ceramics, golf, sewing, cooking, and bowling.
After Donald passed, Elaine met Robert Capra while out dancing with friends, and they were united in marriage in May 1976. Elaine and Bob spent many years together enjoying golf and traveling while wintering in Arizona.
Elaine lived so much of her life surrounded by her family, and they truly embraced this time, never missing a celebration, event or get-together.
Elaine is survived by her siblings, Russell Vassar, Barbara Dagostino, Alice Westman and Marlene Norbertson; daughters, Marlea (Rich) Weber, Dawn Tramontin (Roger Heinzman), and Denise (Steve) Kotlar; step-children, Janice (Tony) Bratton, Larry (Christine) Capra, and Teresa (Jim) Wirth; grandchildren, Brian (Amee) Hord, Christopher (Amy) Hord, Jessie (Kaveh) Barakhshan, and Jennifer (Jon) Daubner, step-grandchildren, Kimberly Capra-Warren, Christopher Capra, and Gina Sievers; 12 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Arlington Vassar, Donald Vassar and Betty LeFleur; husband, Donald Tramontin; husband, Robert Capra; and son-in-law, Stephen Kotlar.
The memories she created with those she loved will forever live on in those she leaves behind. She was strong, determined, and pioneering in her life and was able to impress those qualities on all those she met. The family will be honoring the beautiful life of Elaine in a private ceremony.
If you look to the sky and see a flash of red,
Follow the wings with a turn of your head.
The cardinal that flies may not be me,
But a reminder that my soul is now free.
-Jessie Barakhshan
Private services will be held.
Condolences may be expressed to the family of Elaine Lavern (Vassar) Tramontin Capra online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.
The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Kathleen Taylor Dallman
July 5, 2025
Hi Marlea. I'm Kathy (Taylor) Dallman. I lived on 7th street, you on Margaret. We were fast friends. I'm very sorry on the loss of your Mom. She had a wonderful life. I seem to remember her as a terrific lady. You are so fortunate to have that many memories. Cherish them always. I'd love to hear fm you. I live in Rock. Take care, you are loved. Kathy
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