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Donohue Funeral Home - West Chester

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West Chester, Pennsylvania

Karen Elko Obituary

ELKO
KAREN (nee Rush), 54 years, on March 15, 2004, of West Chester, PA, formerly of Havertown, PA, beloved wife of Dennis J. Elko; she is predeceased by her parents Edward B. Rush, Jr. and Isabel Crowder Rush; beloved stepdaughter of the late Eleanor Rush; sister of Robert Hall (Janet); beloved aunt of Kevin Hall and Kelly Wilke and Brian Hall; niece of Mildred Hall; cousin of Judy Hall Laughlin and Joyce Thomas. Karen is survived by her loving mother and father-in-law Ann and Al Elko; and also many nieces, nephews and in-laws. Relatives, friends and coworkers of Haverford School District are invited to celebrate her Memorial Service Sat. March 27, 2004 at St. Simon and Jude Church where friends may call from 10 to 12 followed by Memorial Mass 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in memory of Karen Rush Elko Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Patriot Bank, 717 Constitutional Drive, Exton, PA 19341. Arr. THE DONOHUE FUNERAL HOME, WESTTOWN.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Philadelphia Inquirer/Philadelphia Daily News on Mar. 21, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Karen Elko

Sponsored by friends of Karen Rush Elko.

26 Entries

Joyce Hall Thomas

March 15, 2025

Hi Karen, Well, 21 years ago, I said goodbye. I still have all the memories of us traveling in your Ford Mustang just to go to Department Stores. You were only allowed to be drive for a short amount of time. From the "Harry Potter" books of decades ago, there is a term - "dopple ganger". It means some one who looks like a relative or family member. Through the years, I have seen many dopple gangers who look soo much like you. Beautiful with blond hair, blue eyes and a very tiny nose. Sometimes, I think it mght be you. This brings back all the memories of how dear you always are to me. I am sure your many decades of students at a Haverford Township Elementary School, Penna still have fond memories of how your positive caring and educational supportive motivation encouraged them to be the persons they are today. Karen, always know you were a very positive motivational force in the World.

Joyce Hall Thomas

March 15, 2024

Hi Karen, It has been 20 years since I said goodbye to you. I always think of you every day, month and year. So many fun and happy memories. Guess what Karen, Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones are on tour in 2024. Their concert is at the Well Fargo Center in Philadelphia. Many of your Favorite Rolling Stones songs are playing on the radio now. I can just see you at the concert. You are safe in Heaven. The Post Pandemic World would not be to your liking - Global Turmoil. Even with this turmoil, rest assured all your students carry the spirit of peace, love, joy and caring which you taught them in your Elementary School Class. Keep shining your light. Love you, Joyce

Joyce Hall Thomas

March 15, 2023

Hi Karen, It's Joyce, your cousin. For me, I remember your birthday August 1st and this day every year. When I came to say "Hi, Karen" I suddenly realized it will be 20 years in 2024 that I needed to say "Goodbye." You live on in not only me, but in your students and in everyone you touched with you kindness. I learned tonight your students still carry your light wherever they go. Eileen, one of your students, sent a message to you, today. Here words express exactly how your spirit touched so many lives. You loved teaching all "your children." And from Eileen's note - all these years later - they loved you, too. Thank you Karen for sharing so much to so many. Love you,
Joyce

Eileen

March 15, 2023

Joyce, thank you for remembering Karen the way you do every year. You bring a smile to my heart every time you post and I see her name in my email bin. She was my 4th grade teacher at Manoa Elementary and I will never forget her either. She was definitely a light in this world and obviously a light in yours. God bless you, and God bless Karen, Mrs. Elko, who I can imagine is doing some pretty amazing things in heaven:)

Joyce Hall Thomas

March 16, 2022

Hi Karen, it's your cousin, Joyce. I just wanted to let you know that I think about you alot. It is almost 20 years since you said goodbye. The memories we shared live forever. These memories are why I am so glad that God placed you in my life. There was a young dove sitting on a tree limb in the front yard yesterday. As I sat on the front porch, I wondered if it was you. I will think of you again in August on your 73rd birthday. Love you, "KR"

Joyce Hall Thomas

March 15, 2021

Hi Karen, I just wanted to let you know that I think about you so much during each year. You were my confidante, friend and cousin. You always had an extra sense, You understood people and were able to communicate to each person in such a way to create serenity. You truly had so many unique gifts, especially with your students in your classroom. Just wanted to say hi. Love you, Joyce Hall Thomas

Joyce Hall Thomas

March 15, 2020

Hi Karen, it's been 16 years. It seems longer to me. I miss you so much. I am sure you are at peace. Love you, Your cousin, Joyce

Joyce Hall Thomas

August 18, 2019

Dear Karen, Yes, it is me again. Just wanted you to know that I think about you all the time, especially last August, 2018. Your birthday was August 1, 1949. My mom, Mildred Degan Hall, passed away on July 26, 2018 and was buried on August 2, 2018. I just wanted you to know that thinking of you was a comfort to me during this time. Well, my dear cousin and best buddy, thanks for always being there.
Love you, Joyce Hall Thomas

Joyce Thomas

March 19, 2015

Karen, it is Joyce. Just wanted to let you know that it has been 12 years since I had to say goodbye. You will always be my dear cousin and my best buddy. Each March 15 and August 1, I think of you even more. Thank you for all the kindness you gave to so many. Miss you and love you.

Ken Roster

March 18, 2015

Hello. Not sure if this is the same Mrs. Elko who worked for a time at Oakmont Elementary School? Can someone please advise if this is so. Thank you :(

Shana (Christine) Houpt Freeborn

March 28, 2014

This morning I woke up with thoughts of inspirational teachers I was fortunate to have over the years, and "Mrs. Elko" immediately came to mind. In doing a search, thinking I would re-connect to say "thank you", I came across this site. To her family, I send condolences and am so sorry to hear of your loss.

I attended Manoa Elementary and look back at my 4th grade year with such joy. Mrs Elko was an amazing teacher. So full of life. She was compassionate and inspiring to all of her students. She loved her students and I specifically recall the loving way she dealt with some of more "troubled" kids in our class; with humor and respect. I learned so many valuable life lessons in her class. And I know our class really enjoyed learning as a result of the class atmosphere she created. As impressionable children we not grew not in our minds but also our hearts... that says a lot about a teacher!
The girls all loved her long blond hair and we all agreed that she was undeniably COOL (unlike our parents or other adults). And yes, she LOVED rock music! I remember the day she brought in a poster of Peter Frampton and had to hang it "just right" so he would "look" directly at her while she was sitting at her desk!

Wow! That was about 36 years ago. Time sure passed quickly. I feel so fortunate to have had her as a teacher. I have carried many wonderful memories of her 4th grade class and have even shared those memories with my daughter over the years.

Mrs. Elko, we were all so blessed to have known you at such a precious time in our young lives. You will be forever remembered for the loving gifts you gave so freely to so many students.Thank you
and may you rest in peace.

Joyce Hall Thomas

December 7, 2012

Yes, Bob, We all miss Karen so much. She was ALWAYS loving, caring and positive. So many of your fond memories are a part of my memories too. She was a sister to me.

Especially as the teenage years came, Karen and I would "hang out" together. When Karen got her driver's license and could drive her gray Mustang around, we would not be allowed to be driving around too long....but just enough to get a Gino's burger.

One Christmas, she drove me to Wanamakers Dept store in Wynnewood,PA. Not too long of a drive. As we entered the store, there was an alarm sounding and an employee said there was a "Fire". We quickly left the store....then to find out there was no fire! It was some kind of false alarm. She called me "Juicy" and said,"This could only happen to you, Juicy."

Karen would vacation with us in Ocean City, NJ. We were on the boardwalk and it was windy. An adult in a family was walking by in the opposite direction. This person was holding several balloons. As the family passed us, the balloons swooped down and twisted around my neck. It pulled me bacwards as everyone in my group keep walking ahead. Karen turned around and saw what was happening...and freed me from the balloons. Again she said, "Juicy, this could only happen to you." Somehow she always knew.

To this day, every time I hear Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones, I immediately think of Karen. She really did love the Rolling Stones.

To all who had Karen touch their lives,
remember her always in your hearts and know that we all share a special blessing....Having Karen care for us.

With fond memories,

Bob Hall

December 6, 2012

My kid sister, Karen, entered my heretofore only-child life on a very hot August day in West Philly. It was 1949 and I, as an 8-year old Robin Roberts, was pitching in a crucial stickball game in the back alley against Stan Musial, also known in the neighborhood as Howie Kravitz. My grandmother, Nanny, called me from the back stoop to announce Karen's arrival. My life as of that moment was to be changed forever. I can vividly remember Karen as a wee, tow-head full of energy and blessed with a contagious, yet impish, laugh that remained with her throughout her life. She brought so much joy to our Mom and Dad. As a youngster she was always pushing the envelope. There was one episode in our side alley where she was riding a small “rent-a-horse” being led by its keeper. Somehow she managed to aid in the escape of the horse and her from the keeper, an act that was followed by an amusing chase up and down our street, all the while with Karen laughing hysterically.

Karen, of course, was the apple of her Dad's eye. From her Dad, a World War II navy veteran, she learned many things, including what I will call “sailor-speak”. As a little girl there were some times when its use led to some embarrassing, yet humorous moments; like the report from her kindergarten teacher to our Mom and Dad that was truly glowing while noting her occasional usage of what was referred to as “adult language”. I know as a grown woman she could employ some “sailor-speak” at fitting times, much to the surprise of the uninitiated who only knew Karen as the serious, mild-mannered grade-school teacher.

Perhaps the most important thing Karen learned from her Dad was the attitude about caring for and about others. Karen could be counted on to help in anyway she could. She could always be counted on to be a champion for an underdog, too. And her manner of doing this was always in an unassuming way. When she was six years old I became ill. As part of my recuperation process I needed to lift weights with my legs. She gleefully played the role of leg weight ala “pony-boy, pony-boy” twice each day. She was there for me. Our years in West Philadelphia were really great.

We moved from Philadelphia to Havertown when Karen was seven. She started in a new elementary school at Lynnwood and made many friends in our Westgate Hills neighborhood. I don't remember too many details, but recollect that Karen was quite a force on the 5th and 6th grade field hockey team. These early years in Havertown were positive and memorable as our family unit was maturing and enjoying the good life.

It was during those years that Janet and I got married. Janet asked Karen, who was 15 at the time, to be her bridesmaid. As you can imagine this was a big deal for Karen who, although needing glasses to see anything at all, insisted on not wearing them during her trek down the aisle because she wanted to look her best. As always Karen's determination prevailed, although there were some uncertain moments involving obstacles in the floor. For me, looking back, this event marked the time when Karen moved from little sister to young woman, even at this early age.

Unfortunately, around this time our mother was beginning to waver under the weight of some misfortunes that she had experienced during her life, and it took its toll on the relationship that Karen was able have with our Mom. During this period Karen was fortunate to have Aunt Mil and her daughters, Judy and Joyce, who took on the roles of mother and sisters during those difficult times.

It was also during those late high school years that a certain young man came into her life. Over the ensuing years Dennis Elko won Karen's heart which was no mean feat, but somewhat easier than winning over Karen's Dad. As we all know, Denny triumphed in this endeavor as well, using that famous focus with which we have all become familiar when Denny sets his mind on something. It was my honor to see first hand the love that Karen and Denny shared as they faced together the challenges associated with Karen's eventual terminal cancer. I also know that when she and Denny became married she became further blessed with her adoption into the extended family of Denny's folks, Ann and Al. Over the years I know Karen grew to deeply treasure the familial relationships and derived strength from her new brothers and sisters and their lifemates and, of course, Ann and Al became Mom and Dad Elko.

For my own family I know there have been so many memories derived from the years after Karen and Denny were a couple. When our son, Kevin, was born Karen was 18 and she happily agreed to be his godmother. She also loved to use him as a “subject” for her practice teaching and testing, and he loved it. A few years later when our daughter, Kelly, arrived Aunt Karen, now a brand new elementary school teacher, was again there to ply her teaching magic. It was such fun seeing her work.

Over our years in Delaware Thanksgiving and Christmas day were special for us as generally those were the times that Denny and Karen joined us for a festive day and meal.
Our kids always relished their time with Aunt Karen, the cool Aunt, who could relate so well to them. Whereas Dad was still fixated on the Kingston Trio and the Beach Boys, Aunt Karen was the Beatles and Mick Jaggar and the Rolling Stones and all the popular groups at any point in time. All the great things that Karen brought to the students in her class she brought to our kids as well. She could relate, she listened and she didn't judge; but would give sage advice. Our youngest son, Brian, was one of Karen's “special projects”. Karen could relate to Brian in a way that no other adult could. Her crowning achievement was when, at our Christmas dinner table, she discovered Brian's tongue stud. In a situation that was most unsettling for parents, her balanced understanding and view of the situation carried the day. That day's crisis is today's laugh, and it was because Karen was there for us.

As a final word, Karen, we will all miss you terribly, but we will never forget you. Thanks for being there for us.

Peggy Chapin-Bainbridge

December 17, 2011

Oh my what a sad shock this is. I extend my sympathies to your brother Bob. I have not seen either of you since my sister Carol's wedding many many years ago. I am 69 years old now and so sorry Karen passed away so young.

Judy Hall-Laughlin

January 14, 2011

Thank you so much for the wonderful memories of my cousin, Karen..I think of her everyday as my sister does,Joyce Hall Thomas..We literally grew up together and spent many wonderful times playing hide & seek, spending summers in Ocean City, and being with each other in Havertown..Well, Karen, you are one of God's special angels that has touched everyone that crossed your path...You are in Heaven now, and you will always being touching our lives.

xoxo Love Jude

Donna Boyle Cautilli

January 12, 2011

It’s been 35 years since I was in Karen Elko’s 4th grade class at Manoa Elementary School. I’ve thought of Karen many, many times over the years and have such fond, loving and (obviously) lasting memories of my time spent with her. I’ve long since moved away but, on the rare occasions when I did return to Havertown, my first stop would always be to Manoa School to see Karen. Karen would welcome me like I was her favorite student returning home. I always felt special and loved. I know all of her students felt the same way.
In fourth grade, I transferred to Manoa and was fortunate to have Karen as my teacher. I knew how lucky I was from the minute I saw her. Not only was Karen gorgeous, with her long blond hair and her cool clothes, she also had the patience of a saint and a heart of gold. She treated all of us as if we were brilliant and capable of accomplishing anything we dreamed of.
I distinctly remember sitting at my desk one day making a hieroglyphic tablet. I watched Karen speak to student who was transferring to another school. Karen hugged the student and cried with her as she packed up her belongings. Karen gave the student her home address and made her promise to write and tell her all about the new school. I know for a fact that they corresponded for years.
Karen treated all of us kids with respect and she loved us like her own children. We all wanted to grow up and be a teacher like Mrs. Elko…to be someone that made others feel special. To this day, I continue to share stories about Karen with my own children. I’ve mentioned her so often that my youngest son thinks I had only one teacher when I was young… “Mrs. Elko.” Last year my daughter came home from her first day in 4th grade and said, “You’re right mom, fourth grade is the best…and I even have a teacher like Mrs. Elko!”
The reason I found this web page today was because I thought, once again, “I wonder how Mrs. Elko is doing? I bet she’s retired by now…” I am so devastated to find out that she has passed away. My heart goes out to her family and her friends. I hope it is of comfort for you to know that her memory and spirit live on through all of her former students. Even after all these years, there are so many of us who feel the same way about her… we feel that we are truly blessed because Karen was our teacher.

Joyce Hall Thomas

October 13, 2010

Karen, what a wonderful tribute to you. After 6 years, one of the many students who you touched has written a beautiful remembrance for you. You touched so many hearts and now your "students" are continuing your legacy.
Cousin Karen, I miss you and will always love you.
Love, Joyce

Lauren Terrell

October 12, 2010

Dear Mrs. Elko,

I am 27 years old and working at a medical office! A women who works in the Middle school was talking about Haverford. I stated I went to Manoa as a child and we started talking about teachers....of course I brought you up! When she said you had passed, my heart broke! That was a few weeks ago and it still upsets me! You were definatley a mentor to me and I want to thank you! You will always be in my heart! I will never forget anything you said or taught me! People like you are rare! I am happy your in a better place and I know your smiling down at Earth! I love you and want to thank you for all you have done...even if it was nine months in fourth grade in 1992! Rest in peace!

Love,

Lauren Terrell xo

Eileen F.

September 13, 2006

Dear Mrs. Elko,

"My" Mrs. Elko. Say, it isn't so. I just found out today about your untimely passing two years ago. To me, it has just happened today, and I feel so very, very sad. What an inspiration you were to me and to so many who were touched by your life. I was in the first 4th grade class you ever taught (you had just graduated from college.) I remember feeling it was such an honor to be a part of that class. That first day is still so vivid in my mind. You were this young, hip teacher with long blonde hair-- different than any teacher I had ever had. You were funny and smart, and I quickly became one of your biggest fans--among many! You had a way of making each one of us feel like we were the only one--that we were that special. I work with children now, and I didn't realize until just now that you are the reason I try so hard to make each one of them feel they are special by finding the uniqueness in each one of them. I want them to feel the way you made me feel about myself. Thank you so much for gracing my life with the example of your life.

Two months ago my husband and I adopted our beautiful little girl,

Julia Lena, from Russia. I visited the old neighborhood today with Julia and I took her for a walk by Manoa School. I was with my stepmother, and as we approached the school I began chattering away about Mrs. Elko, and how special she was. "She must be the principal of the school by now," I exclaimed. I used to visit Mrs. Elko often after 4th grade--well into my 20's. You just wanted to check in with her to make sure you were on track in your life and that she was still proud of you. But, life got busy and I stopped visiting, but never forgot.

We saw a school monitor outside in the parking lot waiting for classes to be dismissed and we exchanged a few words. I asked her if she knew Mrs. Elko and if she was the principal now?! Her reply was a shock,to say the least. And I am dumb-founded. This world has lost such a special teacher--in the classroom and in life. But, I know, though I feel so sad, that God has built a very special home for her in heaven and that she is continuing her work with all the many children that need her there as we needed her here.

Karen, Mrs. Elko, thank you for touching me in such a profound way. I hope you are proud that I am passing on your teachings to the children in my life. I thought you would live forever! I will truly

miss you.

My heartfelt condolences to your husband and your family.I am sure they miss you terribly.

Thank You, and God bless you.

Eileen F. ("Tweedle Dee")

Joyce Thomas

January 27, 2005

Well, Karen.

It was just about a year ago that I thought your struggle with cancer and the chemo would have you come out victorious. I think of you everyday in so many ways and miss you. Just know that I am thinking of you.

Judith Hall-Laughlin

April 1, 2004

Karen was my cousin,but, she was really like a sister to me and my sister. We grew up together from infants. She was fun loving, and loved to laugh. She taught me so many of life's lessons. She was with me throughout the difficult times of my life, always offering a smile, and love. I watched her deal with the cancer and I saw this undying spirit of loving life and fighting to the bitter end. She always thought of others before herself, even when she was so sick.

She will be sorely missed in my life. A void that will not be filled other than with memories and lessons that she taught me on how to live life to the fullest.

Miss you and Love you "KR"..

xoxoxo Jude

Frank M. Brigandi

March 27, 2004

Mrs. Elko was a mentor, teacher, and guide for many many students that had the privilege of having her as a "teacher". I am personally saddened by her passing and will remember her always as a friend, her (classroom) door was always open for a visit whether it be to check in and say hi, or introduce your children to your favorite teacher from when you were in school. I will miss her terribly and will always keep her in my memories. I'm sure that many other kids, now adults feel as I do. She touched so many of us with a deep caring and belief that we were all capable of anything we set our minds to. May she rest in peace.

Jacquie McCarron Skurla

March 22, 2004

Dear Denny,

I am so very sorry to hear of Karen's passing. She was sweet and kind, and I know the whole family will miss her. My prayers go out to you and to Uncle Al and Aunt Ann.

With love and prayers,

Jacquie

Justine Orlando-Larison

March 22, 2004

I knew Mrs. Elko back in Manoa Elementary School.

She was a great 4th grade teacher. Her long blond hair was beautiful! She was a wonderful teacher that brought many experiences to the class.

Kathleen (Stipa) Horsell

March 21, 2004

Dear Karen,

You were my dear friend and colleague. I am saddened that I was not able to say goodbye to you, but I am, oh so grateful, to have been a part of your life. You celebrated so many important moments with me and I will cherish every one of them. You were one of my treasures -- someone that I respected, admired, & loved. If your life so affected mine in just eight short years. . . imagine how many others you have touched. May God Bless You, Karen!

Joyce Hall Thomas

March 21, 2004

Karen Elko was more than a cousin. She was my best friend and she was the "best friend" to so many others. Her spirit was one that few see in life. She asked for little but gave so much to so many.

One of life's greatest achievements is for people to see Jesus in a person's life. Karen lived all the commandments and so much more. She is the personification of St. Francis' prayer.

She was a teacher, a wonderful teacher. May we all remember her lessons that she taught us by the way she lived each and every day.

Love you Karen.

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