Louise Elrod

Louise Ulen "Easy" Elrod, a wonderful and generous mother to Doctor Burk and Judge Don, and a loving grandmother to Phillip, Rachael and Jennifer, died peacefully of old age at nearly 99 years Monday, Aug. 28, 2006, in a nursing home near Seattle, Wash.

Raised in Dexter, Mo., she was the second youngest of the five children -- Gladys, John F., Graydon, Louise, and Jean -- of Samuel and Dora Miller Ulen.

She lived most of her life in Cape Girardeau, arriving in 1935 when her husband began his medical practice. Dr. Dennis Burkley Elrod Sr. was a highly respected obstetrics and gynecology specialist fondly remembered by his multitude of patients for whom he delivered thousands of babies over his long career.

Because of declining health, Easy moved in 2003 to live with her family near Seattle. She was a longtime member of Centenary United Methodist Church and an enthusiastic volunteer at Southeast Missouri Hospital, where many much younger than she experienced her relaxed and cheerful disposition that eptly earned her the enduring nickname.

Her leaving Cape Girardeau was felt by many, especially by her beloved sister-in-law, Mary, widow of Jean, of Dexter.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, with Ford and Sons Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Concerned friends may contact Dr. Dennis "Burk" Elrod Jr. in Anchorage, Alaska, at (907) 349-5457.