Mint Hill, North Carolina - Elaine Marie Glowacki (Thiel)

Elaine Marie Glowacki, 89, of Mint Hill, North Carolina, formerly of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her son's home in Mint Hill, NC on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Elaine was born in Detroit, Michigan on August 4, 1936 to the late Albert and Germaine Thiel. She married the love of her life, Frank Glowacki, on Saturday, May 5, 1956 in Detroit. Together they began their family in St. Clair Shores, Michigan moving to Traverse City in 1969. Elaine and Frank shared 54 wonderful years of marriage until Frank's passing in 2010.

During the summer months many camping weekends were spent on the family property in Manistee with family and friends. In winter Elaine and Frank developed a deep love for Arizona, where they enjoyed spending their winters year after year. They treasured the warm climate and the many friendships they formed there.

Elaine was a gifted homemaker and crafter who found great joy in camping, gardening, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and oil painting. She was also well known for her baking, especially during the Christmas season, when she lovingly baked nearly 100 dozen assorted cookies each year to share with family, friends, and neighbors. Her generosity, creativity, and servant's heart touched the lives of many.

Elaine was a faithful follower of Christ and a devoted member of Living Hope at Ballantyne Church in Charlotte. Prior to moving to Mint Hill in October 2025, she was a longtime member of Bible Baptist Church in Traverse City.

Before retiring in 1999 Elaine worked many years in the insurance industry.

Elaine is survived by her children: Frank Glowacki of Charlotte, North Carolina; Michael (Gail) Glowacki of Traverse City, Michigan; and Sheryl (Bryan) Shaff of Asheville, North Carolina. She is also survived by her five grandchildren: Scott Shaff, Keith Shaff, Heather LeCureux, Brandon Glowacki, and Amanda Glowacki; and eight great-grandchildren: Greyson Shaff, Everly Shaff, Eli LeCureux, Abby LeCureux, Sam LeCureux, Gabriel Glowacki, Raegan Shaff, and Evan Shaff. She is also survived by her sister, Janet Thiel of Arizona.

Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Glowacki; her parents, Albert and Germaine Thiel; her brother, Edward Thiel and daughter-in-law Kim Glowacki.

A Memorial Service will take place Saturday, August 8th at Living Hope at Ballantyne in Charlotte, NC. A private graveside committal service will be held on Saturday, August 29, at Oakwood Cemetery, with Pastor Joel Brown officiating.

Memorial contributions can be directed to Living Hope Ballantyne - 11724 Elm Lane - Charlotte, NC 28277 or to Bible Baptist Church - 1915 Cass Rd. Traverse City, MI 49685.