Kathleen Susan Elston

Kathleen Elston Obituary Kathleen Susan Elston, known affectionately as Kathy to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, in Laguna Woods, California. Born on June 15, 1947, in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, she was a beacon of strength and knowledge throughout her 77 years of life.
Kathy was a well-traveled individual, having spent her childhood in various locations including Pennsylvania, Germany, Hawaii, Washington, and Northern California due to her family's military background. She carried the spirit of adventure throughout her life. A proud graduate of Junipero Memorial High School in Monterey, California, Kathy furthered her education at the University of Hawaii. It was there that she met James Elston, who was serving in the US Army. Their marriage was a journey of love and exploration, taking them to many exotic locales over two decades. Although their paths later diverged, their union was blessed with a son, Joseph Elston, who sadly preceded her in death.
Kathy's professional life was marked by a successful career as a business recruiter, a role she dedicated over forty years to with passion and commitment. Her natural people skills and her ability to connect with others made her not only excellent at her job but also a beloved colleague.
Her personal interests were as colorful and varied as her personality. Kathy's love for cultural icons was evident in her adoration of Lucille Ball, Cher and Elvis, whose performances brought her immeasurable delight. She was also a devoted fan of John Wayne, speaking his name with a reverence that always brought a blush to her cheeks and a hand over her heart. Her mornings began with the ritual of hot black coffee, a tradition she inherited from her father.
An excellent cook, Kathy found pleasure in preparing Italian and Polish dishes, with her pot roast and perogies being family favorites. Sharing this love with her family, she relished the opportunity to take her nieces on shopping trips, making each excursion an event filled with laughter and love.
Her home was once shared with her beloved Siberian husky, Alex, and after her passing, she found joy in caring for her brother's dogs, Bronson and Mako, whom she affectionately called "the gentlemen." Kathy's love for animals was just one aspect of her generous heart.
Kathy's heart was full of love, and she was the epitome of strength and independence. Her stories of raising her little brother Dominick, whom she was seven years older than, resonated with the special bond they shared. Despite the bumps, bruises, and scars of life, their bond was unbreakable and filled with mutual respect and adoration.
Kathy is survived by her brother, Dominick DeRado, and his wife, Bethany, along with her three nieces, Katy, Alexandra, and Madison DeRado, and her great-niece Kyrie and great-nephew Kallum. Her passing leaves a void in their lives that will be filled with cherished memories of her warmth, humor, and wisdom.
Those who knew Kathy would describe her as a generous soul, always ready to lend a hand or share a joke. Her wisdom was a guiding light for many, and her sense of humor was a source of constant amusement. Kathy was an embodiment of independence and love, touching the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Kathy's life was a tapestry of experiences, relationships, and passions that made her uniquely herself. Her zest for life, her unwavering generosity, and her ability to make those around her smile will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.
As we bid farewell to Kathleen Susan Elston, we celebrate the indelible mark she left on this world. Her spirit, full of love and laughter, will continue to inspire and comfort us in the days to come.
Services
Memorial Mass
Thursday
June 12, 2025
10:00 AM
St. Norbert Catholic Church
300 E. Taft Avenue
Orange, CA 92865
Graveside Services
Friday
June 13, 2025
10:00 AM
Ascension Cemetery
24754 Trabuco Road
Lake Forest, CA 92630