Stella Adam

Stella Viola Rauser Adam May 14, 1924 – July 26, 2019 Stella was the second of five children born to William and Mollie (Rieger) Rauser in Mercer, North Dakota. She passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, July 26, 2019 in Elk Grove, California. Stella is survived by two sons, Bill Adam of Rocklin and Jack Adam of Fresno, one daughter, Barbara Luiz (David) of Elk Grove, former daughter-in-law, Sally Faulkner; eight grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. In addition, her sisters Miletta Fandrich of Scotts Valley and Lorraine Gravens of Hidden Valley Lake, and many cousins survive her. Preceding Stella in death was her loving husband of 70 years, Ernie Adam, two baby brothers, and daughter-in-law, Carol (Pollock) Adam. Stella was a lifetime member of Creekside Christian Church, formerly known as First Baptist Church of Elk Grove, where she taught kindergarten Sunday School until the last of her grandchildren were through. She also sang in the choir until her 80s, was an avid traveler, participated in mission building projects in Aniak, Alaska and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and volunteered in the church office. Stella’s career began in 1963 with the opening of Jessie Baker School where she worked for 26 years - first in the combo position of bus attendant, bookkeeper, and classroom assistant, and as the school grew, Stella became the fulltime secretary. It was her dream job! After her retirement in 1989, she spent the next twenty years as a volunteer at the Kaiser South Hospital. She mentioned often how much she enjoyed the opportunity to offer encouragement to those she met. This was her ministry. After the death of her husband Ernie, Stella moved to an apartment at The Commons in Elk Grove. She remained there with the wonderful, loving, caregiving staff until her death. The family would like to express their appreciation to the Commons for their tender care. She claimed the promise God made to her in 1 John 2:25. She lived a great life, and while she will be greatly missed, Stella leaves a legacy of faith and family that will live on. A viewing will be held Sunday, August 4th from 12-5pm at East Lawn Memorial Park & Mortuary, 9189 East Stockton Boulevard, Elk Grove, CA. The graveside service will be held at 10am on Monday, August 5th, at East Lawn Memorial Park & Mortuary, followed by an 11am celebration of life and reception at Creekside Christian Church, 8939 East Stockton Boulevard, Elk Grove, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Merced County Rescue Mission P.O. Box 3319, Merced, CA 95344, (209)722-9269.