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Elena Lasswell Obituary

Elena Teresa Adell Lasswell, 15, born January 17, 1989, died at her home in Phoenix on July 10, 2004. Elena attended St. Gregory's Catholic School, Sirrine Elementary School, and Phoenix Preparatory Academy, where she graduated in May, 2004. She was registered to attend North High School starting this fall. Elena is survived by her parents, Steve and Molly Lasswell, her brothers, Martin, Joseph, John and Michael Lasswell, her sister, Katie Lasswell, plus her grandparents and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Visitation will be held Thursday, July 15, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at St. Gregory's Church, 19th Avenue and Osborn Road in Phoenix, followed by a prayer service at 7:30 PM. Her funeral Mass will be Friday, July 16, at 11:00 AM, also at St. Gregory's, followed immediately by a reception in St. Gregory's Gordon Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either St. Gregory's Development Fund at 3424 North 18th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85015, or to Catholic Social Service at 4747 North 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85013. Elena had an infectious enthusiasm for life and brought joy to everyone she came into contact with. She was absolutely dedicated to her family and loved team sports, art, and animals. She lived to spread happiness - she will be sorely missed by her family and all who knew her. Arrangements by Whitney & Murphy Arcadia Funeral Home.

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Published by The Arizona Republic on Jul. 14, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Elena Lasswell

Not sure what to say?





Samantha Ambroz

July 30, 2004

I was good friends with Elena and went to school with her. We had so many good times. She could always make me laugh and it's hard to imagine that she's gone. She will always be missed by everyone who knew her. If you were ever sad or upset, she always knew how to cheer you up and make you laugh. I'll miss her so much..

Evangeline Guillermety

July 22, 2004

Dear Parents, It's with deep sadness that I write this letter to you. I was Elena's Reading teacher at the Prep. (Ms. G) I moved to Florida after Graduation and it was just yesterday that I received this sad news. I want you to know that although I had Elena in my class for a short period of time, she will always be remembered. She was a very special girl, always with a smile, her love for crazy jewelry was always something we share. She was very polite, very mature for her age and a great writer. The day before graduation we had a very profound conversation about life and the way we should face the future,to always be happy and positive about all the new things that were coming for us. She gave me a lot of support on my move to Florida and I did the same on her move to High School. I can't imagine your pain. I only know that God in his plan for each one of us has something very special for your daughter. She will be a very bright little star, a little angel all dress in bright colors and with her wings full of beads bracelets. Looking over you, your family and all her many friends that I know will miss her deeply.I will always treasure the time I had your daughter in my class and that sincere conversation we had before saying goodby. God Bless You All

Sincerely

Evangeline (Ms.G)

Elena & the Whole Crew at Martin & Nicole's Wedding

July 20, 2004

Elena & Jessica at Graduation from Phoenix Prep

July 19, 2004

Elena with "Papa" Don

July 19, 2004

Elena in Martin & Nicole's Wedding

July 19, 2004

Robert Glenn

July 19, 2004

Life is something that God gave us the priveledge of having. It is very sad to lose such a great gift. Elena Lasswell recieved this gift just as everyone has, and used it in many great ways. She used it to give frienships to many people, she used it to make happyness for her family and for others, and many more things. She used her gift of life to give to others which is very loving to do. Elena rest peacefully in heaven.

Laura Neuroth

July 16, 2004

The celebration of life is the gift God has given us it-- is hard to see it that way at times like this. I wish the family to have peace and comfort. My son was a classmate at St. Gregory's and I know Elena must have been a beautiful person inside and out. I learned of Elena because Robert talked of her much. I know the kids at St. Gregorys are happy to have Elena's presence weaved into the fabric of their lives. May God's presence and the support from your friends and family help you through this transition of life. Our Blessings, Laura, Robert, and Markie

Kim Carbone

July 15, 2004

The worst thing in life is to lose a friend, a friend that means the world to you, a friend that you put all your trust and faith in, a friend that you believed in from the start, a friend that took the center of your heart, a friend that you'd die for, a friend that you wanted to cherish for a lifetime, a friend, a good friend, a best friend. Elena was a really great friend. I remember all the stupid things we did. I was friends with her since third grade. I'll miss her a lot. I want her to know that i loved her very much. Everyone did and still do. Rest in Peace Elena.

Love~Kimmie <3

Alyssa Stephenson

July 15, 2004

My fondest memories with Elena were at St. Gregorys School. We enjoyed tea parties, birthday parties and having fun at Jungle Jims and the school playground. Although I left St. Gregorys School, my early child hood memories will always include Elena.

I will miss you Elena.



-Alyssa

Vanessa Cannon

July 15, 2004

I've been friends with elena since second grade. We have shared many memories that will alwayz be in my heart. Elena you were a great friend in deed. We all know you are in a better place.U will be greatly missed. R.I.P Elena.

John Torres

July 15, 2004

I did not know Elena but worked with her father, Steve, for a number of years. My wife and I both express deepest regrets and will keep Steve, Elena, and the whole Lasswell family in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you all and know He is there with you.

Brittany Badini

July 15, 2004

I went to St. Gregorys with Elena and remember her as the girl that everybody wanted to be friends with. I pray for peace for her family. I know she is with God. I will remember her always. My familys prayers are for you.

Alyssa,Anais,and Vanessa

July 15, 2004

Elena was a good friend of all of us.We got the oportunity to share many wonderful memories with her.She will be greatly missed by alot of people.Our condolences go out to the lasswell family.

Trenna Chappell

July 15, 2004

I've worked with Elena's dad, Steve, as an administrative support. I've not had the opportunity to meet Elena. But, Steve, my prayer for you and your family is to keep your eyes fixed on heaven for inner strength. It is God's never ending supply that sustains us and keeps us full to overflowing with His grace, peace and mercy.

M. Rodriguez

July 15, 2004

My prayers go out to Elena's family and friends. I knew Elena for a the last 4 months, when we moved to the Prep. She was a wonderful and helpful person. I know there are no words to help ease the pain in such a tragedy, but all we can do is pray. GOD BLESS and keep the faith in GOD.

Liz Haskins

July 15, 2004

May the memories of your daughter held deep in your heart help to soothe your sadness during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Cindi Miner

July 15, 2004

I am a co-worker of Steve, Elena's Dad. Please accept my sincere sympathy and know that your family is in my prayers.

Tracy Powers

July 15, 2004

I have supported Steve Lasswell as his administrative assistant at Lockheed Martin. I know Molly and of the children from all the wonderful stories that Steve and Molly have shared. They are wonderful, caring people who are genuine and loving. There are no words that I can possibly say to comfort you. You all are in our prayers and know that your friends are here to give you any support that you may need.

Dru Rideau

July 15, 2004

Elena's brother, Martin, and I went to high school together. My deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to the Laswell family. God Bless all of you!

The Stoner Family

July 15, 2004

As one of Elena's basketball coaches at St. Gregory, we saw what a talented athlete she was and how fun loving she could be. Our condolences to her family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Scott, Kathy and Jenna

Coral Martinez

July 15, 2004

We were saddened to hear about the loss of your beautiful daughter Elena. Our thoughts and prayers are with your Family during this difficult time.



May God Bless You with the Peace of His Holy Spirit.



Sincerely,

The Martinez Family

Coral, Mario and Taylor

Sylvia Villa

July 15, 2004

To the Lasswell Family: Our sincere condolences on the loss of your beautiful daughter. Heaven is now a little brighter with the presence of your angel. May God grant you much Love and Peace in days to come.



Sincerely: Sylvia, Lisa & Adam Villa

Chris Nelson

July 15, 2004

SOME PEOPLE COME INTO OUR LIVES AND QUICKLY GO--SOME STAY FOR A WHILE AND LEAVE FOOTPRINTS ON OUR HEARTS AND WE ARE NEVER, EVER THE SAME. ELANA WAS FRIENDS WITH OUR DAUGHTER ALYSSHA WHEN SHE ATTENDED SIRRINE ELEM. IN CHANDLER. SHE WAS AN AMASING CHILD WHO BROUGHT SO MUCH SUNSHINE INTO OUR LIVES. WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR THE TIMES WE SPENT WITH HER AND HAVE MANY WONDERFUL MEMORIES. OUR HEARTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY AT THIS TIME. WE ARE SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.

reyann lebario

July 15, 2004

elena was my best friend and ive been there for her through many friendships she had and i had. she was always there when i needed her and i was always there for her,and i just want to say she was the happiest and the most beautiful friend i could ever ask for i was so fortunate to have known her...ILL MISS YOU ELENA!..ill never forget you.

PATSY VERDUZCO

July 14, 2004

OUR FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ALL THE LASSWELL FAMILY, OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU. MAY GOD BLESS YOU.

THE VERDUZCO'S

Jennifer Verduzco

July 14, 2004

I had the pleasure of knowing Elena for four years she always made people laugh she was so much fun to be around i will never forget Elena there is no words to explain Elena's talent, and funny personality!! she will be missed by so many people.

Jane Harder

July 14, 2004

My son, John, and I are friends of the Tourville family. We are deeply sorry for your loss and pray that God will lend His hand to you at this most difficult time.

mary rosas

July 14, 2004

i am a really good friend of her brother joe and well i dident really know her but the way joe talked about her it semes as thought i knew her and well the laswell famliy will be in my heart and prayers

ike geffre

July 14, 2004

elena and i were really good and close friends...u never think something like this is gunna happen. but when it does, its hard to believe.i miss her so much...i can't believe anyone would do this...it has affected so any people...elena always brought smiles to everybodies face.she was so fun to be around and so nice ot everybody.she had her whole life ahead of her...i will miss her dearly...

Vivian Alvarez

July 14, 2004

My son, Julio Cisneros, attended St. Greg's with Elena. We are so sad that such a young, beautiful life has been taken away. May you find peace and comfort with God, family and friends.

(Cisneros/Alvarez Family)

Rita Dominguez

July 14, 2004

I am Reyann’s mother Rita. Elena was a part of our family. We share very fond memories together of Elena. Elena was a true friend to my daughter Reyann, in more ways than one. It saddens me deeply to see the pain and sadness in my daughter’s eyes, from the loss of her friend. I can’t imagine the pain of loosing a child. Elena always brought her humor to our home. My mother loved her. Elena would greet my mother by saying,”Hola Nana!” That memory will stay with my mother, Reyann’s grandmother, forever. My family and I want to express our deepest sympathy to you and your family. The memories we shared with Elena will forever be in our hearts. God bless you and your family.



Yours truly,



Rita, Reyann, Rochelle, & James

Chris Peña

July 14, 2004

I was really good friends with Elena. She was always the one who made EVERYBODY laugh. I can't believe she is gone! She had so much ahead of her in her life. Elena I miss you and I won't forget you. You will be in mine and everybodys hearts forever.

Chris Peña

July 14, 2004

I was really good friends with Elena. She was the one who made EVERYBODY laugh. I can't believe you are gone! You had so much ahead of you in your life. I miss you and I will never forget you. You will be in mine and everybodys hearts forever.

Pena Family

July 14, 2004

May the Lasswell family find peace knowing that their outgoing, lively, beautiful daughter is in the Lord's presence now and forever.

Marie Skidmore

July 14, 2004

Our deepest sympathy to the Lasswell family. Elena was a beautiful angel here on earth and is now a heavenly angel smiling down on us with that infectious smile.

Maggie Ripsin

July 14, 2004

To Elana's Family,



I am Eileen Ripsin's sister. I wanted to tell how sorry I am for your loss. My family's prayers are with you.



Maggie, Alanna, Addie and Autumn

Briana Lucero

July 14, 2004

I asked God for a flower, and He gave me a garden. I asked Him for a tree, and He gave me a forest. I asked God for a river, and He gave me an ocean. I asked Him for a friend... and God gave me Elena! We will miss you and may God bless your family!

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