Elnora Louise (Pretzer) Lyke-Ross, aged 103, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025. She was born on September 17, 1922, in White City, Kansas, to Albert and Byrdie (Schaeffer) Pretzer.

Elnora graduated from White City High School in 1940 and was employed at Fort Riley Military Post until her marriage to Frank Lyke on January 1, 1944. Together, Elnora and Frank welcomed two sons, Richard and Michael. As Frank managed Post Exchanges across the country, the family relocated frequently before eventually settling in Rapid City, South Dakota, after his retirement. Elnora had a deep love for caregiving and found great joy in caring for many neighborhood children over the years.

Frank Lyke preceded her in death in May 1983. Elnora later married Harold "Hal" Ross on December 15, 1990. During the early years of their marriage, Hal and Elnora enjoyed traveling together, though later health concerns kept them closer to their home in Rapid City. Elnora was active in her church and took great pride in her role as a homemaker. She was well known for her warm hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals, especially her fried chicken and lemon cake.

Following Hal's passing in April 2019, Elnora moved to Ohio to be nearer to family. She resided in a senior living community in Powell, Ohio, and later moved to Ganzhorn Suites in July 2022.

Elnora was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Frank Lyke; her second husband, Harold Ross; her son, Michael; her brothers, Roy and Russell Pretzer; and her sister, Irene Pretzer.

She is survived by her son, Richard Lyke of Lebanon, Ohio; three grandchildren, Michelle Mezera and her husband Robert, Patrick Wayne Lyke and his wife Jennifer, and Erica Rowe and her husband Ben; along with numerous stepchildren, step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who will fondly remember her warm smile and gentle spirit.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 am, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at 12:00 noon at Pine Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery.