Age 77 of Kalamazoo passed away Friday afternoon, February 28, 2025. Elaine was born in Kalamazoo on April 2, 1947, the daughter of Albert and Stella (Micheau) Heighton. She was married to Charles Powell and later to David W. Potgiesser, who preceded her in death in 2020. Elaine worked for over 20 years as a secretary at Western Michigan University. She and Dave enjoyed travelling, especially to Cancun, where they went several times. Elaine was easy to talk with and never met a stranger. She had a bubbly and vivacious personality. She had a great memory for details when it came to meeting people. Elaine enjoyed visiting the casinos. Her two greatest accomplishments were her daughters. Nothing was more important to her than her family especially her grandsons. Elaine is survived by her daughters, Michelle Powell of Scotts and Cheri Powell of Kalamazoo; grandsons, Elijah Merritt and Rayce Henagan; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends including her special four-legged friend, Tripper. Beside her husband she was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, James Heighton and William Heighton; sister, Joyce Abbott.