Obituary of Elaine J. Nakai

Elaine Joyce Nakai “Xaawi hoxerewi”, age 64, of Nekoosa, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 2, 2017 at her residence.

Visitation will be from 2:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, October 4, at Cex Haci Community Building in Nekoosa, followed by Native American Church Services.  Stuart Lonetree will officiate.  Commitment services will be at 12:00 P.M. on Thursday, October 5, also at Cex Haci.  Burial will be at Dexterville Cemetery.

Elaine was born January 26, 1953 in Wisconsin Rapids to Vanverd and Emaline (Grizzly Bear) Dick Sr.  She married Dick Nakai on June 19, 1971 in Friendship, WI.

Elaine held various positions with the Ho-Chunk Nation and Navajo Nation throughout her lifetime.

Elaine was a lifelong member of the Native American Church where she also served as an officer.  She was an excellent cook.  She loved her family and was known to put the needs of her family and relatives before her own needs.  Elaine was skilled at beadwork and sewing.  She loved going to the casino to play slots and bingo.

Elaine is survived by her husband, Dick Nakai; four children: Richard Nakai, Baraboo, WI, Irene (Bryan) Fruit, Rio Rancho, NM, Joseph (Ramona) Nakai, Nekoosa, and Casper Nakai, Nekoosa; six grandchildren: Jessica Nakai, Myra Nakai (Tyler Thompson), Cionazi Nakai, Taahnazhi Nakai, Matthew Fruit and Mary Fruit; three great-grandchildren: Mariah, Miyako and Tasuna Thompson; and two brothers: Vanverd (June) Dick Jr., Window Rock, AZ and Norbert (Alice) Dick, Wisconsin Rapids.  She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Crandall, Nathan and Keith Dick; and sisters: Lenora Smith and Lorna Nakai; and nephew, Carlos Nakai.

Herman-Taylor Funeral Home, Wisconsin Rapids, is honored to be serving the family.