Elaine M. Baran 1939-2021

Elaine was born Feb. 9, 1939, in Youngstown, and was a daughter of the late Guy Delpha and Mary Frances Guerriero Delpha. She was raised in Youngstown and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1957.

After raising six children with her then-husband, Eugene T. Baran, Elaine enrolled at Youngstown State University and graduated in the 1980s with a bachelor of arts degree in graphic arts. She subsequently moved to Georgia and worked at Georgia Tech University for over 17 years.

After retiring from Georgia Tech, Elaine lived in Venice Beach, Fla., where she made several close friends over the years. Florida was her “happy place” and one of her favorite things to do in Florida was “drumming on the beach” at sunset. She also made a home for Chloe, her little Yorkie, who was her companion for many years. Elaine would proudly walk Chloe in her doggie stroller around the Venice Beach area, and Chloe was terribly missed by Elaine when she passed away about two years ago.

Elaine enjoyed tennis, sailing, and travel, and she visited Italy several times. Mill Creek Park was a favorite place of hers in Youngstown. She had a passion for cooking, especially Italian food, and she enjoyed hosting endless dinner parties.

Elaine also loved music. In the 1970s and 80s, she played guitar in the folk group at St. Dominic Church, and she was honored to assist numerous couples with their wedding music. Elaine also had a close relationship with Youngstown-born, well-known singer, Maureen McGovern, and she became the president of her Fan Club. Elaine was very passionate about Maureen’s music and was truly one of her biggest fans.

Elaine leaves to cherish her memory her children, Nancy Johnson of Kansas City, Missouri, Donna (Pat) Tarbet of Youngstown, Rose Mary (Steve) Demechko of Oklahoma City, Linda Wade of Phoenix, Bob (Patricia) Baran of North Royalton and Dianne Smith of Mentor-on-the Lake; 15 grandchildren; a great-grandson; and a sister, Mary Ann Czopur of Youngstown.

In 2016, Elaine returned to her hometown of Youngstown due to illness and lived at Canfield Place. She loved interacting with the staff and they also loved her. Chocolate made what was a challenging day for her better. Her family thanks the entire staff of Canfield Place for taking such good care of “Mom” and sharing the love they felt for her.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects from 9:30 to 10 a.m., Friday, May 7, 2021, at St. Christine Church on South Schenley Avenue in Youngstown, and are welcome to stay for a memorial Mass that will be celebrated at 10 a.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Elaine’s name.

Please visit www.kinnickfuneralhome.com to view and share this obituary, and to send condolences online.

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