Madalyn Elaine Bindel

Elaine Bindel— a vibrant, loving soul who never met a stranger and cherished every conversation like it was with an old friend-passed away in Aurora, Colorado on September 18, 2025, at the age of 87. Born in Akron, Ohio on January 20, 1938, to James Harold and Madalyn Even Jones, Elaine grew up in a close-knit Baptist family, her life rooted in faith, music, and the value of community.

Elaine graduated from Akron Garfield High School in 1956 and began a lifelong career in the medical field. Her early dream of becoming a nurse led her to work as a dental assistant right out of school, and eventually as a receptionist for the president of the Ohio State Medical Board.

After moving to Denver, Colorado, she served with dedication at the Denver Eye Surgery Center and later as a CNA at Craig Hospital, where she made a deep and lasting impact working with brain injury patients.

Elaine's life was rich with music, a passion she nurtured from the age of 10 when she began singing in the girls' choir at church. She went on to become a soloist and was a proud member of her school's symphonic choir in high school. Her love for music was boundless, ranging from opera and classical to jazz and country.

Elaine married the love of her life, Irvin F. Bindel, on June 14, 1987. She is survived by Irv, her devoted husband of nearly 40 years; her children Ron Hackett Jr. (Denise), Lillian Hackett, Gregory Hackett (Lynnette), Brent Hackett, Renee Hackett (Paul), Vickey Ferguson (Tom); stepdaughter Ruth "Schatzie" Dickey (Ron); Kevin Bindel, who was predeceased by his beloved wife Susan; Irv's son Wade, who held a very special place in Elaine's heart. Elaine has 15 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved brother Larry R. Jones and his wife Joyce, Irv's parents Irene Bindel and stepfather John Fisher, Irv's father Albert Bindel and her dear friend Sonja "Sunny" Hughes.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held on October 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Horan & McConaty located at 5303 East County Line Road, Centennial, CO. 80122. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Berkley Hospice https://www.berkleyhospice.com/donations