Elsie M. Hein, 98, of Sheridan, passed away at her home October 9, 2009.

Born in Loma, Colorado, to David F. and Linnie (Collins) Fields, the family moved to Sheridan where Elsie attended grade schools in the home ranch area and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1930.

After graduating from high school, she lived with her parents at the Big Corrals Ranch in Clearmont, WY, where she assisted her family with the ranching duties and raised horses.

She married Dr. Clifford J. Hein on May 28, 1938 in Buffalo, WY and the couple moved to Sheridan where Dr. Hein established his optometric practice.

Elsie was a housewife and continued to be involved in her parents’ ranching operations.

After her husband’s death in 1956, Elsie returned to ranching as her full-time occupation, purchasing a ranch next to her parents on Prairie Dog Creek. She continued to work on ranches in that area until moving to town in 1985.

She then worked as a ranch cook for Becton Stock Farm for several years.

Her love of horses remained with her throughout her life.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Raymond Fields, sister Retha Cox and granddaughter Dershie Hein.

Survivors include son William (Bill) Hein and his wife, Charlotte, son Clifford (Ed) Hein, and daughter Linda L. Ernst, all of Sheridan. Also surviving Elsie are grandchildren Deanna Parks, David Hein, Audrey Hein, Troy Hein, Ann Ernst, and Lisa Knox, as well as nine great grandchildren, two step-great grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren and nieces Carmen Ouimet and Charlotte Hubing.

Graveside service will be held Tuesday, October 13, 10:00 a.m. at the Masonic Circle #8, Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with Rev. Kevin Jones officiating.

Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Elsie’s name to the Shrine Children’s Travel Fund, P. O. Box K, Sheridan, WY 82801.

The Sheridan Press - October 12, 2009