Elaine Barbara Kotefka

Kotefka, Elaine Barbara (Keogh)

March 8, 1937 – November 16, 2025

Passed away peacefully at age 88. Preceded in death by husband Jerry; parents Gene and Ruth Keogh; sisters Mary (Don) Torgerson, Terry Damiano, Dorothy Keogh; grandson Drew Walters; survived by children Mary (Jim) Heymans, Ruth (Jim) Thompson, Anne Kotefka, Matt Kotefka; grandchildren Ryan Walters, Shannon Heymans, Adeline Heymans; very close nieces and nephews David (Sherry) Torgerson, Dennis (Tana) Torgerson, Diane (Gary, deceased) Rognrud, Debbie (Wayne) Anderson, Rita (Bob) Bauer, Annette (Mike) O’Keeffe, John (Bev) Torgerson, Paul (Ashley) Torgerson; Larry Joe Damiano; Kay (Mark) Delaney, Frank (Barb) Urban Jr.

Mom was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, and remained a lifelong resident of the area. She began her education at Cathedral Grade School and continued on to St. Joseph’s Academy for her high school years, where she became an active member of the Glee Club and enjoyed participating in its musical activities. Upon graduating from high school, her first job was with the Catholic Youth Center (CYC) and then the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) where she was a secretary.

In August 1963, she married Jerry Kotefka. Together, they raised four children, and she dedicated many years to being a stay-at-home mother, focusing on her family and home life. After Dad’s passing in 1980, Mom transitioned into a professional career, working as a legal secretary at Hansen, Dordell, Bradt, Odlaug & Bradt. She remained with the firm until her retirement in 2007.

Mom had a lifelong passion for her family, friends, and music. She formed deep and lasting friendships that spanned the years, creating a close-knit circle of loved ones who shared in her joys and interests. Her enthusiasm for music was a thread that connected her with those around her; Fiddler on the Roof and her love for all things Neil Diamond were especially cherished by family and friends. Together, we celebrated this passion, whether attending plays, concerts (lots of concerts) or simply enjoying music in each other’s company. The legacy she left, however, was instilling this same love and passion for music in each of her children.

One of her other special pleasures was visiting the casino, accompanied most often by her mother, daughter, and grandson. These outings were more than just a pastime; they became cherished traditions that brought the generations together and created lasting memories (if not lighter wallets).

Over the course of two decades, Mom faced a series of challenging eye conditions. Her eyesight gradually but persistently deteriorated, ultimately resulting in an almost total loss of vision. Despite the tremendous challenges this presented, she consistently demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience. Her determination allowed her to continue living independently for as long as possible, only requiring additional support during the last six months of her life. Her perseverance in the face of adversity was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Mom will be missed by all who knew her, but her presence will be remembered and celebrated as her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Presentation of Mary Catholic Church, 1725 Kennard St., Maplewood, MN 55109, on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 11:00am, with a visitation beforehand beginning at 9:30am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Minnesota State Institute for the Blind or a charity of your choosing.