Elaine (Sofranko) Cameli, 89, of Dunmore, died peacefully surrounded by her family at Geisinger CMC on Friday.  She was the wife of George Cameli for 55 years before his passing in 2012.  She was born August 1, 1935 to the late Michael and Ann (Weiss) Sofranko, raised in Throop.  Elaine graduated in 1952 from Throop High School.  Prior to marriage in 1956, Elaine worked at Lucas Pharmacy in Olyphant.  Early in her marriage, she freelanced as a model and worked catering events at the Holiday Inn, Dunmore.  She earned her cosmetology license at Empire Beauty School in Scranton and opened her home-based beauty shop.  Her clients became dear friends.

Elaine's illuminating presence exuded kindness.  She brought joy and unconditional love to every person she met.  She had an innate ability to genuinely connect with others.  Many described her as "the most positive and optimistic person they ever met."  The resilience Elaine displayed when facing obstacles in life was awe-inspiring.  She thrived by drawing energy from other people.

Her relationship with God was the guiding force in her life.  She was a member of SS. Anthony & Rocco Parish in Dunmore, where she served as a Eucharistic minister and member of the Altar and Rosary Society.  Elaine had a special devotion to St. Ann attending the annual novena her entire life.

Elaine derived joy from sewing, entertaining, traveling, painting and planting her flowers.  She loved her East Warren St. neighbors like family; especially Paul and Susan Vinskofski.  Social gatherings including St. Joe's pool group, Red Hatters, Dunmore MAC Club and the Throop Civic Center were her favorites.  She was blessed spending 40 winters in West Palm Beach, where she cherished her beloved Florida community of close-knit friends and family.

A special thanks to Dr. Michael Alocci, Geisinger CMC ER, Allied Services Rehabilitation Hospital, Laurie Battle RN, Jason Manzer and all the home health professionals and caregivers who provided care to Elaine.

In her last chapter, she relocated to St. Mary's Villa Personal Care Residence.  She participated in nearly every recreational activity, weekly field trips, sessions of the rosary and Mass.  Her sense of style earned her the nickname "Cover Girl."  She loved the staff and they adored her.  Elaine developed a beautiful companionship which lasted nearly two years with Jimmy Green, a fellow resident.  Their relationship brought so much joy to the staff, residents and each other.

What brought her the most happiness was her marriage to George, her three daughters, five grandsons and two great-grandchildren.  Surviving are daughters Susan (Dr.John) Scanland, South Abington Twp., Sandy, Dunmore, Maine (Kevin) Keith of Lebanon PA. Grandsons Dr. Craig (Ashley) Scanland, Brendan Scanland, Chris Keith, Brian Keith, Tyler (Mary-Kate) Keith and great-grandchildren Brooke and Daxton Scanland, brother Paul Sofranko (Rosalie), Santa Rosa CA and sister Joan Kucharski, Toms River NJ, sister-in-law Barbara Sofranko, Coatsville PA, Alberta Cameli, Lakewood OH, brothers-in-law Eugene (Marianne) Cameli, Pittston PA, Bernie Cameli of West Palm Beach, FLA, 33 nieces and nephews and numerous grand-nieces and nephews.

Elaine was preceded in death by her husband George, her brother Michael Sofranko Jr; brother-in-law, Myron Kucharski; nephews Michael Sofranko III and John Cameli, nieces Mary Theresa Dellario, Cathy Morian and Krista Cameli.

The funeral Mass will be held Thursday October 17 at 10A.M. at SS. Anthony and Rocco Church, 302 Smith St., Dunmore.  Friends attending the funeral mass please go directly to church.  The viewing will be held on Wednesday October 16, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the John F. Glinsky Funeral Home,445 Sanderson St.Throop.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Elaine Cameli to St. Mary's Villa Residence , One Pioneer Place, Elmhurst Twp,PA 18444