Elena M. DiFranco, MA, LPCC

ELENA M DIFRANCO, MA, LPCC, age 60, passed away in her home April 12, 2026, surrounded by family.

Elena was born June 7, 1965, to her parents, the late Kathleen Quinlan and Anthony (wife Kathy) DiFranco. (wife Kathy). Elena was a cherished sister of Colleen Wilson (husband Mark), Gina Varcelli, twins Anthony “TJ” and Kathleen Zdanowicz (husband Thomas), Jenifer Goodwin (husband Michael) and Melissa Pelletier (husband Richard); loving aunt of Ashley New (husband Bradley), Alicia Pollice (husband Nicholas), Matthew Varcelli, Karly Luke (husband Ryan), Kacey Thompson (husband Jared), Jacquelyn Kovac (Devin Meyer), John Kovac (Jessica Molinyawe), Taylor Freiberg (husband Steven), Katelyn Longo (husband Joseph), Thomas Zdanowicz, Kayla Zdanowicz, Jena Goodwin, Michael Goodwin, Mia Goodwin, Amelia Pelletier, Henry Pelletier and great aunt of 11. She was also preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Harry Varcelli. Elena was also a dear niece, cousin, and friend to many.

Elena was faced with great adversity as a young girl; when she was 16, she endured a car accident which rendered her quadriplegic for the rest of her life. Despite this hardship, Elena went on to graduate from Notre Dame Academy in 1983 and her undergraduate and master’s degrees from John Carroll University. Influenced by her caring, compassionate nature and devotion to her faith, Elena dedicated her life to helping others, practicing as a licensed clinical counselor for many years.

Elena enjoyed many visits to Disney World over the course of her lifetime; she saw a little bit of herself in Princess Ariel from “The Little Mermaid.” She often brought the magic of the theme park into the lives of her loved ones, showering them with gifts and love on every holiday, birthday, and sometimes, just because. The children in Elena’s life would never doubt her appreciation for “the oldies,” having enjoyed countless jam sessions to classic 70s and 80s tunes.

Elena was a strong, resilient fighter with a great sense of humor. She was deeply devoted to her family, who in turn offered their constant support; together, they overcame every obstacle through laughter and tears. She was always there whenever she was needed and will be remembered for her kindness and enduring love by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Elena’s memory may be made to her Treasured Memories Fund.

Join us in celebrating the life of Elena with a Prayer Service at 11AM SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2026, at 11AM at THE FUNERAL HOME. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Elena following the service at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) SATURDAY AT 11:30AM-4PM.