Alice Elnore Harju

Alice Elnore Harju, age 99, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026. Born on July 6, 1926, in Waukegan, Illinois, Alice lived a long, generous, and deeply devoted life centered around family, music, and the everyday joys she created for those she loved.

A homemaker in the truest and most heartfelt sense, Alice poured her energy into raising her children with warmth, structure, and unwavering support. She was an accomplished baker whose fruit pies--made lovingly from scratch--became a cherished family tradition. Music filled her home as naturally as conversation; she played piano beautifully and taught her children to play, passing along both skill and appreciation for the art. Show tunes were her soundtrack, and she carried that joy with her throughout her life.

Alice was also a Cub Scout den mother, guiding her three children with patience, creativity, and enthusiasm. She believed strongly in the value of teamwork and community, making sure her kids played team baseball and cheering them on from the sidelines at every opportunity. Her belief in American democracy was steady and sincere, a reflection of her optimism and sense of civic responsibility.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry Albert Harju, and her son Craig Stephan Harju. She is survived by her sons Cameron Scott Harju, Randall Stuart Harju and daughter in laws, Claudia Ward Harju, Leanne Novotny Harju, along with four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her spirit of kindness, creativity, and resilience.

A celebration of Alice's life is planned for midsummer, where family and friends will gather to share memories and honor her remarkable journey. A short graveside service will be held at North Shore Garden of Memories on Saturday, March 7, 2026.

Alice lived with grace, humor, and a steadfast love for her family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her influence will continue to echo through the generations she nurtured.