Elaine Catherine Kenton

After 90 action packed years, our beloved matriarch Elaine (ma, mom, grandma) Kenton passed away on July 10, 2013, after several weeks of declining health. She was born in Racine, Wis., and there met the love of her life, Richard, in her teens. They were married 51 years and together raised nine children, twenty-seven grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.

If you looked up the words "sassy" or "spunk," her name would likely be part of the definition. Her irreverence and comical honesty endeared her to everyone she met. You were fortunate if you were ever a beneficiary of one of her famous home-made pies', and luckier if you were able to duplicate that crust. Young at heart almost to the end, we were blessed to have had her as a part of our lives and so happy she was able to enjoy her 90th birthday party last month. Her family will have many stories of a loving and feisty grandma to share with the youngsters as they grow. She is likely bar hopping on horseback again (ala 1940s) with Richard right now up there, and will be missed and remembered by all who met her.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard Kenton, who passed away in 1993. Elaine is survived by her children, Judy Klinzing (Mike), Jim Kenton (Lynn), Joan Kenton, Jill Kenton, John Kenton, Jerry Kenton (Lisa), Jeff Kenton, Jack Kenton (Mariella), Joe Kenton (Jennifer); all the grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends.

A special thanks to Olivia, her caregiver and best friend for the caring, love and kindness she gave her over the last few years.

A Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Ojai, Calif., on August 8, 2013, at 11 a.m. Arrangements were made with the assistance of Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura, Calif.