Elke Lambert, 53

Elke Karin Lambert, age 53, of Constantine, died on Thursday, March 12, 2020 at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo following a brave battle with cancer. She was born June 6, 1966 in Bayreuth, Germany a daughter of Hans Gunther Joachim and Inge (Scholz) Lehmann. Elke graduated from school in Germany and qualified by exam to be a state employee of the Post Office. She delivered mail on her scooter during her teenage years, and also worked in the Officers Club at the Military base. Coming to the United States in the early 1980’s, she became the first female server at Antoines in the French Quarter, Louisiana, established in the 1840’s.

Elke later met Ian Joe Fox and moved to Constantine, pursuing her dream to own and operate a restaurant. Elke’s in downtown Constantine, became a place to eat a meal and hand scooped ice cream. More importantly, it was a place to enjoy the company of Elke who shared her love and kindness with everyone. She was a strong woman, and if you look up the word survivor in the dictionary, you should see a picture of Elke. Her warm heart and infectious smile will be missed by so many.

Surviving are her companion and soul mate Ian Joe Fox, Constantine, children Nicole (Calvin) Hurt, Ashley (Charley) New, David (Herbrinisha) Lambert, Tiffany (Shaquille) Lambert, grandchildren Olivia, Lara, Aeden, Memphis, Elyssa, Jaelynn, Terrel, Londyn, Logan, Lyric, Zariyah and Shaquille Jr. and sister Marika Lehmann.

She was preceded in death by her parents and infant daughter Jessica.

Relatives and friends will be received from 4 to 7 pm Wednesday at Eley Funeral Home in Constantine, where religious services will be held at 11 am Thursday with Pastor Dennis Smith officiating. Interment will be in Constantine Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Eley Funeral Home to help the family with expenses. Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.