Elaine Marie Skolnicki, 82, Embraced Opportunities to Connect with Others and Explore the World Around Her

Born May 25, 1942, in Lorain, Ohio, Elaine was known for her quick wit, loving nature, and wonderful sense of humor. Elaine was the daughter of Walter J. and Florence (Krawczenski) Skolnicki. She grew up in Lorain and graduated with the Class of 1960-B from Lorain High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society, A Cappella Choir, Girls’ Athletic Association, and Y-Hi Sweaters Club.

Elaine continued her education at Ohio University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics and was active in many university clubs. In 1963, Elaine was crowned Jubilee Queen at the 50th anniversary celebration of Lorain’s United Polish Club, an honor that reflected her charm, poise, and deep connection to her heritage.

Elaine began her professional career in New York City as a buyer for Lord & Taylor. After several years in New York, she returned to Ohio with her creativity and keen awareness of fashion trends to work for Higbee’s as a buyer. A longtime resident of Rocky River, Elaine went on to work for University Hospitals (UH) for many years as an Assistant to the Director of the first clinical cancer center in Northern Ohio, UH Ireland Cancer Center (now known as UH Seidman Cancer Center).

Throughout her life, Elaine embraced opportunities to connect with others and explore the world around her. She had a passion for foreign travel and cherished time spent visiting with family and friends. Elaine enjoyed playing tennis, listening to music by Neil Diamond and other ‘70s artists, and driving cool cars like her 1970 Chevrolet Camaro.

Elaine remained active in retirement, participating in a myriad of classes and programs at Rocky River Senior Center. Whether solving crossword puzzles, telling puns, or playing bingo, Elaine brought joy and laughter to those around her. She was a longtime member of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Lorain.

She was preceded in death by her parents, aunts, and uncles. Elaine is lovingly remembered by her brother Walter T. (Rebecca) Skolnicki of Pittsburgh, PA, nephews Mark (Kaarina Ornelas) of Toledo, OH and Tom (Kevin Kane) Skolnicki of Raleigh, NC, nieces Beth (Tim) Weese of Springfield, VA and Catherine Skolnicki (Hugo Cruz) of Pittsburgh, nephew Jared Skolnicki of Phoenix, AZ, grand-nephew Alexander Cruz, former sister-in-law Sharon (Spaich) Skolnicki, and many beloved cousins.

Throughout her life, Elaine deeply appreciated all the visits, calls, and cards from members of her large extended family and her wonderful friends. The generosity and support of Barbara and Alan Pavelschak enhanced Elaine’s health and well-being before she moved to Pittsburgh. Elaine’s family is grateful for the doctors, nurses and staff at assisted living communities and hospitals who gave Elaine compassionate care over the past several years.

A celebration of Elaine’s life will take place on Tuesday May 27th in the Gluvna-Shimo-Hromada Funeral Chapel, 3224 Broadway, Lorain. Family and friends may gather from 10:00 a.m. until the time of memorial services at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Craig M. Hovanec, Pastor of Nativity BVM Catholic Church will officiate. Extended fellowship with a luncheon will immediately follow the service in the funeral chapel. At 1:00 p.m., those wishing to participate may join a procession from the funeral chapel to Calvary Cemetery– 555 North Ridge Road, Lorain – where interment will take place.

Contributions in Elaine’s memory are encouraged to either the Parkinson’s Foundation (https://www.parkinson.org/), UH Seidman Cancer Center (https://www.uhgiving.org/ways-to-give), or Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish (https://nativitybvmlorain.org/).