Elaine Marie Klodakis-Shahan, 76, passed away peacefully at home on May 22, 2025, after a prolonged illness. A beloved wife, mother, yiayia, sister, mother-in-law and friend, Elaine's legacy is one of unwavering love, gentle kindness, and deep devotion to her family.

Born on May 12, 1949, Elaine was raised in a close-knit Greek family, where she learned the values of loyalty, compassion, and joy. It's where she developed her love for cooking from her mother, Bessie Klodakis and her grandmother, Helen Mentzelos. Her early years were filled with laughter and music often dancing around the house with her brother Yanni Klodakis. That joy carried into her lifelong love of music, especially the voice of Elvis Presley.

After graduating from Lincoln High School, Elaine worked in her family's restaurant. But it was her role within her own home that defined her most: a devoted mother and mother-in-law, a caring sister, a loyal wife, and an adoring yiayia. Elaine dedicated most of her life to the people she loved, and her home was always a place of comfort and care.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Nena Shahan Bradley. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Gary Shahan, whose steady partnership filled her heart and home with love; her daughter Kira (Justin) Fullen; her grandchildren Kyle and Natalee Bradley, who brought her endless pride and joy; and her brother Andy (Amanda) Klodakis, who remained a source of strength and connection. Despite the miles, Elaine never hesitated to travel to Florida to visit and be near her family.

Elaine's spirit was gentle, yet strong marked by her smile, laugh, empathy, and the tender-hearted nature she inherited from her father, Gus Klodakis. She leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a family forever better for having been loved by her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Elaine's honor to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society: https://www.lls.org/ways-to-give

Calling hours will be Friday, May 30 from 12:30 - 2 PM at the Arnold Funeral Home at 4817 Cleveland Ave NW. Funeral services will begin at 2 PM with Celebrant Kevin O'Brien officiating. Final resting place is Forest Hill Cemetery.