Memorial

Elaine Cory Bangs, 67, of Cedar Rapids, passed away September 21, 2026. A Private Graveside Service will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. A Reception with the family will be held from 2 – 3:30 PM on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Cedar Memorial Park Family Center and Library. 

Elaine was born on November 16, 1958, in Waterloo, Iowa, the daughter of Emil and Marjorie (Kern) Cufr. She grew up in Traer, Iowa, and graduated from North Tama High School in 1977. Elaine also attended Ellsworth College. She worked at the Vinton School for the Blind and then worked in the Cedar Rapids School District as a custodian for twenty years before retiring. Elaine later worked as a part-time laundry aid at the Meth-Wick Community where she enjoyed making friends with the residents there. She loved cats all her life most recently caring for Tanner, Slater, and Copper. Elaine loved jokes and taking photos. She also enjoyed watching movies and TV, hanging out with family and friends, eating out and yearly trips around the U.S. with her daughter. In addition, Elaine enjoyed Farmers Markets and collecting metal art. 

Survivors include her daughter Krista Bangs of Cedar Rapids; siblings, Dawn Mason of Dysart, Amy Hancock of Dysart, Ernie (Julie) Cufr of Traer, Michael (Paula) Cufr of Milton, FL, and Jill (Kevin) Sempf of Cedar Rapids. Elaine is also survived by her nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; brothers-in-law, Rick Mason and Jon Hancock.
 
The family extends their appreciation to Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota.