Audra J. Chevalier, age 76, of Elkhart, died December 30, 2011 at Elkhart General Hospital after a long and courageous battle with COPD. She had previously fought and beaten throat cancer. She was born September 21, 1935 in Battle Creek, Michigan to the late Donald H. and Glenadine (Cole) Stark. She married Leonard H. Chevalier on March 22, 1958 at the Michigan State University Alumni Chapel. Surviving is her husband Leonard, and their three sons; Jon (Rose) of Bristol, Indiana, Jeffrey (Kim) of Elkhart, Indiana, and Lee (Keri) of Lansing, Michigan. Also surviving are four granddaughters, Sara, Libby, Sophie, and Ava, and one grandson, Aric, as well as two nieces, Lynne and Laurel and a nephew Gregory. Surviving as well are three cousins, Larry, Gay, and Nancy. Audra was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Donine. She was a wonderful wife mother and grandmother, partnering with her husband of 53 years, but providing the most effort in nurturing the bringing up of their three sons in Grosse Pointe Woods and Grand Blanc, Michigan. Audra graduated from East Lansing High School in Michigan in 1953, and received a Bachelor''s Degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University in 1959. Prior to graduation, she taught elementary school in Virginia while attending William & Mary and working as an assistant in a fine men''s clothing store before returning to Michigan. She attained the status of member of the Order of the Golden Arrow, Pi Beta Phi Fraternity in 1955, originating from her acceptance during her college days. She initially won the title of Miss Virginia Beach, then the title of Miss Virginia in 1956, followed by taking part in that year''s Miss Universe Contest in California. Friends may call from 12-2 pm Saturday, January 7, 2012 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola. Private entombment and memorial services will be held at a later time. Chapel Hill Funeral Home is handling arrangements. In her memory, memorials may be given to the COPD foundation. "For ease and simplicity in ordering sympathy floral arrangements online, from the comfort and convenience of your home or office, please visit our website at www.memorygardensfloral.com. Numerous photographs for you to browse and a price range for every budget. This is a local floral ordering service and is under the complete direction and supervision of the staff at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home."