Elaine V. (Kissinger) Cara, age 88, (previously of Dawn-Mar Street, Lenker Manor, Harrisburg, PA) died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, October 30, in the arms of her loving husband Patrick V. Cara. Elaine was born on July 7, 1933, in Sacramento, PA, to Willard and Mildred (Kimmel) Kissinger and raised on a farm in the beautiful Hegins Valley within a close-knit family that included siblings C. Joanne (Frank) Fiorilla, USAF (Retired) Colonel Forrest (Polly) Kissinger and Jean (Marlin "Red") Fetterolf. After graduating from high school, Elaine left "the Valley" to pursue adventure and a career in Harrisburg, where she soon met the love of her life, Patrick. They were married on May 31,1958, and enjoyed 63 wonderful years together. She is survived by her devoted husband and beloved siblings, as well as her children Gina (David) Murphy, Christopher (Dena) Cara, and Patricia (Anthony) Rosato, as well as her grandchildren Cara Murphy, MD, Emily Murphy, Matthew Cara, Christopher Cara, Natalie Rosato and Ava Rosato. She is joyfully reunited in death with infant grandson Patrick Murphy. Elaine had a career she loved as an Administrative Assistant with the Pennsylvania Poultry Federation, where she worked with her lifelong friend and neighbor, Ruby Leo. Highlights of her career included planning events that allowed her to meet celebrities like Tony Bennett. Her greatest happiness in life was spending time with her large circle of friends and loving family. In recent years she earned the title "World's Greatest Grandma" again and again by helping to care for her grandchildren when they were young and maintaining close and loving relationships with each of them as they entered adulthood. Elaine was also an avid reader, movie buff, enthusiastic traveler and accomplished cook – best known for her strawberry-rhubarb pie. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Elaine's life at Neill Funeral Home, 3501 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA, on Monday, 11/8. Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by a prayer service at 1 p.m.
