Elisa M. Poulsen (nee: Sadowski), age 77, passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2026 surrounded by her children.

Elisa was born in Racine to the late Chester and Dorothy (nee: Arcuri) Sadowski on August 22, 1948. Elisa is a graduate of St. Catherine's High School. On April 4, 1970, Elisa was united in marriage to James L Poulsen at St. Rita's Catholic Church. Elisa worked at Twin Disc until her retirement in 2005. James and Elisa raised their family in Sturtevant and were proud members of St. Sebastian Catholic Church.  Elisa's strong faith led her to participate in the women's Cursillo movement.  She was involved with the liturgy committee and was a church lector.  She also led a teen choir for many years.  Elisa's favorite job was being Mimi.

Elisa is survived by her children: Theresa (Michael) Sullivan, Rebecca (Rudy) Larson and Michael (Rachel) Poulsen; grandchildren: Zachary Sullivan, Samuel (Emily), Emolia, Maxmilian, Sophia and Genevieve Larson, Liam, Lily and Levi Poulsen; and great grandchildren: Magdalone and Theodor Larson. Elisa is further survived by her brother, Timothy Sadowski and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Elisa is preceded in death by her devoted husband, James L Poulsen; parents, Chester and Dorothy Sadowski; brothers- in-law, Frederick (Janet) Poulsen and Robert Poulsen.

The family would like to especially thank The Medical Suites at Oak Creek and Legacy Hospice for their compassionate and wonderful care of Elisa.

Service Details

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Rita's Catholic Church, 4339 Douglas Avenue, Racine on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 11:00 am with visitation starting at 10:00 am. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Memorial Suggestions

The family suggests memorials in Elisa's name to Alzheimer's Association – Wisconsin Chapter (alz.org/wi).