Elaine A. Wightman's Obituary
Elaine Wightman, 72, of Hernando Beach, FL passed away on Monday February 26, 2018. “Laine”, as she was known to friends and family, was born March 30, 1945 in Salem, MA. The daughter of Albert V. and Ethel Latauska, Laine spent her early years in Hartford, CT and Crystal Lake, IL before the family moved to Sunland, CA in 1955. During her adolescence Laine enjoyed equine hobbies, breaking and training horses and taught ballroom dancing. She was also a regular dancer on Pacific Bandstand, a weekly televised dance show. Laine attended Villa Cabrini Catholic CA and Verdugo Hills High School, followed by attendance at Woodbury University.
Laine’s first date with the love of her life was on January 1, 1965 when they attended the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, CA. Laine and Winton “Toby” Wightman, were married April 10, 1965. During those early years of marriage, Laine flaunted her adventurous spirit by riding motorcycles in the desert, always wanting to be the fastest girl among them all! The birth of her two daughters did not slow her down. While Toby’s job as a civil engineer took the family from California to New York, Idaho, Virginia and Georgia, Laine spent the decades camping, hiking with her “Crazy Lady” group, bowling and volunteering as a Girl Scout Leader and Trainer, teaching advanced survival skills. Laine excelled at all, even taking home a championship bowling trophy from a tournament in the District of Columbia.
Once the girls had moved out to live on their own, Laine shifted her efforts to support many worthy causes close to her heart. She remained a key contributor and supporter for Small Paws Pet Rescue and the Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, TN until her passing. Laine also quietly supported multiple female owned small-businesses located worldwide and contributed to numerous charitable and social causes. Laine was most recently elected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Hernando Beach Property Owners Association. Laine enjoyed being outside and treated every day as an adventure. Her more recent hobbies included cruising, traveling by car, RV or motor home, visiting the casinos, cards with friends and socializing with her always growing circle of friends and family.
Laine was fiercely loyal to friends and family and celebrated every accomplishment, no matter how small, achieved by her children and grandchildren. She was a proud and supportive wife, mother, grandmother who was recently blessed by the birth of her first great grandson.
Laine leaves behind her loving husband of 52 years Winton (Toby) Wightman), Daughter and son-in-law Amy and Christopher Giorgio, Daughter and son-in-law Susan and Lee Triesch, Granddaughter Noel Miller and husband Ben, Grandson Max Triesch, Granddaughters Alexis and Bailey Triesch, Great-grandson William Miller, Brother and Sister-in-Law Steven and Jackie Latauska and Brother Michael Latauska. Additionally she leaves her beloved furry family members Cassie, Dusty and Sparky. She will be missed by all.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 on Tuesday March 6, 2018 at Grace Memorial Funeral Home, 16931 U.S. Hwy 19, North Hudson, FL 34667, (727) 863-5471
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