Jo Elaine Schiel, 79, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born in Bluffton, IN to the late Joegene and Romanel Biberstine.
Elaine was someone who made a positive impact on those around her and brought joy to their lives. She often shared jokes to make people laugh, even if they were not great jokes. She would make up her own songs and sing in front of others bringing joy in that way. She had a strong sweet tooth and could always be bribed with ice cream or candy. The people around her were simply drawn to her. Even Nursing Home staff and people who would meet her briefly would later say how she positively impacted them. Many people cared for her including her friends and family.
Elaine is survived by her two children, Kim (John) Mattinson, and Chris (Monica) Schiel; grandchildren, DJ, Justin, Ryan, Lucas, and Jessica; and many cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two siblings, Brenda Finney, and William Reid Biberstine.
A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 5 pm, located at FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services (6557 N. Clinton Street) with visitation from 3 pm until the service.