03/01/2025
Leona “Elaine” Hart, 86, passed away on March 1, 2025, in Knoxville, Iowa surrounded by her loving family. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at Pierschbacher’s in Knoxville. A visitation will take place at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Elaine will be interred in Gullion Cemetery in Attica at a later date.
Elaine was born in rural Marion County on April 1, 1938, to Raymond and Nellie (McShane) Richmond.
As a young girl, she attended Columbia Elementary School and eventually graduated In 1956 from Knoxville High School.
In 1958, Elaine married a young man at church by the name of Harry Hart. This union lasted over 67 years and was blessed with two daughters. They made their life on their family century farm outside of Bussey.
In their younger years, Elaine and Harry spent many evenings at Knoxville Raceway. They still have the program from the very first Knoxville Nationals. They also loved road trips and camping along the way. Marion County Park was one of their favorite spots.
They both also stayed very active in the Attica United Methodist Church, holding various volunteer roles over the years. Elaine and Harry’s yard was always decorated for every season and will be remembered by many passing cars on Highway 5.
Elaine held various jobs over the years. A farmer’s wife first, then was a certified nurse’s assistant as well working in the Twin Cedars school kitchen. Upon her retirement, Elaine showed no signs of slowing down and kept busy whenever and wherever she could.
She took on custodial duties at the Bussey Clinic for several years and most notably spent countless weekends working in “Grandma’s Kitchen” during the Van Donsler Auctions where she was well known for her cooking and homemade pies and desserts.
Elaine will be remembered for her caring and compassionate nature. She loved her family and was especially fond of her only grandchild, Lance. They made countless memories shopping at thrift stores, finding deals at garage sales, or simply swinging on the backyard swing set. 
Her loving and grateful family will never forget her smile that could light up a room.
Elaine is survived by her husband, Harry; daughters, Tania (Allan) Cook and Tarene (Joe Kennedy) Van Polen; grandson, Lance Van Polen; and her loving dog, Maddie. She was preceded in death by her parents, and many loving pets over the years.
Memorials in Elaine’s name may be directed to Marion County Humane Society or Job Point (400 Wilkes Blvd, Columbia, MO. 65201) to provide Certified Nursing Assistant scholarships to at-risk youth and adults seeking a career in the healthcare field.