Elmira “Mike” Esther Aiken, 90, of Fall Creek, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 19, 1934, in Ludington Township, Wisconsin, Elmira was the cherished daughter of Emil and Margaret Henning and beloved wife of Vernon Arthur Aiken for 73 years.
On October 6, 1951, Elmira married the love of her life, Vernon Aiken. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and family. Theirs is a love that shined through their gazes until the end.
She began her working years as a nanny on several family farms, then took a job at Webster’s Candy in Eau Claire before dedicating herself to raising her family. As her children began to leave home, she became a successful Tupperware saleswoman and manager for over 20 years. Elmira brought joy to countless homes through her sales and home parties. Her accomplishments in the field earned her many awards and recognition, including a feature article in the industry magazine titled, “Elmira Aiken: The Lady with the Smile in her Voice.”
Elmira’s passions were as vibrant as her personality. She loved gardening, filling her yard with colorful flowers, and preserving food to share with her family. She delighted in playing with her children and grandchildren, embodying kindness and warmth in every interaction. Elmira’s Lutheran Christian faith was a cornerstone of her life, as was her love of polka dancing and exploring the United States with Vernon in their camper. Her love of travel also found them exploring Hawaii and Mexico on trips she won through Tupperware, and helped them stay connected to friends and family that spread across the globe.
Family was at the heart of everything Elmira did. Her home was a haven of warmth and love, and her beautiful smile welcomed all who crossed her path.
Elmira is survived by her devoted husband, Vernon Aiken; her beloved children, Florence Vandenhoy, Daniel Aiken, and Irene Emmer; her sisters, Anna Thomas and Alice Monpas; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry on her legacy of love and kindness.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Emil and Margaret Henning; her brother, Franklin “Butch” Henning; her sisters, Florence Korn and Josephine O’Brien, and her grandson, Michael Emmer.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Trinity Lutheran Church in Fall Creek, with a visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be sent to St. James Trinity Lutheran Church.
Elmira “Mike” Aiken will be remembered for her generous spirit, nurturing heart, and the joy she brought to all who knew her. Her smiling eyes and the love she shared will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
“Do not be discouraged, for the Lord our God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
God has you in his arms, I have you in my heart.
Online condolences can be left at www.andersonfhaugusta.com