ELKIN, CHURCH


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Posted by Cathy Gowdy on Wednesday, January 25, 2006 at 13:12:12 :

Marin Independent Journal
Saturday, December 29, 2001


Jean Louise Elkin, A Resident of Novato
Known and loved by many, passed away on December 27th in Novato. Born January 28, 1924 in San Francisco, Jean grew up surrounded by the wide cultural diversity of little Italy. Tradition was an important part of her heritage as her mother Jean Hodgkinson, gave her a set of values and heritage from her homeland in Scotland. Her father, Robert Hodgkinson brought contrast with his English heritage that blended together to raise a very gifted and giving child. Always an active and involved member of the community, Jean began a life long tradition of helping others by sharing what little they had during those difficult early years. Jean was blessed with two sisters, Mona and Vera, as well as a niece Corinne (Mickey to her friends) who became as close if not closer than any sister could be. On June 2, 1946 Jean married Lauren Elkin Jr. and began a partnership that lasted 55 years. Less than a year after getting married she graduated from Saint Luke School of Nursing in 1947 and began her career in nursing. Jean continued her education and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska in 1959. Her passion for nursing continued throughout her life and Jean was one of the first two nurses hired when Novato General Hospital opened. Known as Jean Elkin the friendly nurse whose compassion and dedications for caring were legendary. She was a champion for both employees and patients. Her compassion for those hospitalized, her joy in helping bring a new child into the world, unending commitment to do everything possible help save lives and ability to console families were very special qualities that became the standard for care at Novato General. Her love of life and people was tireless. Her dedication and support for her husband and family were deep rooted and absolute. As a military wife, Jean traveled throughout the United States and Japan and was passionate about sharing and giving at every opportunity. In Japan she learned to speak Japanese and became actively involved in working with the children to help them understand the culture of both the United States and Japan. Her ability to bring the Japanese culture alive has been an inspiration for many Novato children to explore their own heritage and culture. Her passion for life and people was never ending. During their travels throughout the world, both Jean and Lauren gave a great deal of their time and energy for the Box Project, National Industries for the Blind, Guide Dogs for the Blind of San Rafael, Rainbow Girls, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, as well as many other organizations. Jean and her husband Lauren both played an active role in helping those less fortunate regain their dignity and respect and become valued members of society. Jean was a very giving, compassionate person who made everyone feel they were part of her family. Her fine Scottish sense of humor always made everyone feel welcome. So many people's lives have been touched by her deeds that her memory will live with us for generations to come. She was truly a phenomenal woman and will be missed by all. Jean was an active member of Saint Francis Church in Novato since moving to Novato in 1946. She requested that in lieu of flowers a donation be made in her memory to Saint Francis Church. Friends and family may pay their respects at Keaton's Chapel of Marin, 1801 Novato Boulevard in Novato on Sunday, December 30th from 12:00-4:00 PM in Novato. The Service will be held at Saint Francis Church at 967 Fifth Street in Novato at 1:00 PM on Monday, December 31st, 2001. Jean will be buried at Valley Memorial Park Cemetery in Novato. Her husband, Lauren Elkin Jr., daughter Linda Jean Elkin, son Lauren Elkin III and daughter-in-law Claudia Elkin, two grandchildren Lauren and Michael Elkin, Corinne Church her sister and Robert Stansfield her great nephew survive her.




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