Obituary of Elena Kokkino

Elena Kokkino (née Basceanu) passed away on September 6, 2022, in Eugene, Oregon at the age of 86. She was born in Constanta, Romania, on May 14, 1936. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dimitri, her beloved children Andrew and Ioanna, daughter-in-law Jody, grandchildren Livia, Eva, Eva, Sofia and Anthimos, and an extended loving family in Chicago, Romania, and Greece.  She leaves behind her sister, Emilia, and was preceded in death by her brother, George.

Elena’s journey was rich and circuitous. She was born in a small community in Romania. She met Dimitri at age 21. Her devotion to him was unwavering, as they made one first courageous move to Greece, in pursuit of freedom. They made a second more courageous move to the US in 1966, in pursuit of their dreams. With perseverance and hard work, they built a beautiful life in Chicago, and then in Eugene, Oregon. In both cities, they built their lives around their family, friends, and church. For most of her career, Elena worked as a medical office assistant for a multi-generational ENT practice in Chicago. 

Elena was strong, nurturing, giving, energetic, hardworking, courageous, and tenacious. She filled the lives of all of those she touched with happiness, warmth, vibrant energy, beautiful food, and abundant love. She created lasting happy memories for extended family, and the many friends that touched her life. 

Funeral services will be held at St. George Orthodox Church, 202 Hillview 1 in Eugene, OR on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 11:00 am. Elena will be buried at West Lawn Memorial Park, 225 S. Danebo Avenue, Eugene, Oregon. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Sacred Heart Medical Center Foundation in Eugene, Oregon in appreciation of the great care that she received there throughout the years. https://www.peacehealth.org/foundation/sacred-heart/donate-now