Obituaries

Elaine Gloria Foss Belcher

Obituary

With great sorrow, we announce the passing of Elaine Gloria Foss Belcher of Bonney Lake, Washington.  She was born on April 24, 1945 to Hjelmer and Ione Foss and went home to be with the Lord on July 4, 2025.

Elaine’s life was lived to the fullest.  With her incredible smile, independent spirit, insatiable sense of adventure, and passion for education she inspired the world around her.  As a college student, she traveled with her choral group singing about the good news of Jesus, inspiring others to put their trust in the Savior. She married Ronald Belcher, and together they had 2 sons: Nathan and Joel Belcher. While raising her sons, Elaine held a career as an elementary school teacher, returned to school to obtain her Master’s degree, and became a friend, leader, and mentor to many in the Northshore School District where she taught for 33 years.  All the while, she inspired her students and sons to never quit - to remember that problems are only challenges. “Never say something is too hard - it’s only challenging.”  She taught those around her to never let anyone else define them, but to push past limits and to do more than anyone ever expected of them.  She encouraged her son’s adventures and encouraged their participation in sports, made sure they had ski lessons and opportunities to adventure in the outdoors, and were given opportunities for education.  Elaine desired the same things for her grandchildren and constantly encouraged and provided for them to pursue education and adventure. 

After retirement, Elane’s influence on the world around her only grew.  She began to travel the world, visiting countless countries and each continent at least twice. She made and kept many friends from childhood up until her last days. She was very active in her community in Bonney Lake and was an example of independence, courage, strength, and adventurousness to all who knew her. 

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, Hjelmer “Jake” Foss and Ione Foss, and the love of her life - her husband Ronald Belcher. She is survived by her brothers Dave and Doug Foss, her sons Nathan Belcher (Jennifer) and Joel Belcher (Samantha), and her grandchildren whom she was so incredibly proud of: Eliana, Annabelle, Elias, and Levi.

There will be a pubic funeral service held at the Chapel of the Resurrection in Bothell, Wa. on Saturday July 26th at 10 AM.  Immediately following the service and entombment, there will be a reception to celebrate Elaine’s life well lived. Please plan on joining us for a light lunch.

A viewing for family, friends, and acquaintances will be held on Friday, July 25th from 4-8 P.M. at the Chapel of the Resurrection.