Elaine Marie Kroha's Obituary
Elaine Marie "Arnoldi" Kroha, 82, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in St. Petersburg, Florida. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she leaves behind a legacy of creativity, generosity, and deep love for her family and community.
Born on March 14, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, Elaine was the cherished daughter of Joseph Arnoldi and Irene Donovan. She was raised in Danbury, Connecticut, where she attended Danbury High School before continuing her education at the University of Connecticut. Her early years were marked by a strong Catholic upbringing and a passion for learning that would remain with her throughout her life.
On January 26, 1963, Elaine married Thomas C. Kroha. Together they built a life rooted in love and mutual respect. In 1972, they moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, where Elaine would reside for the remainder of her life. There she became an integral part of the community and found spiritual fulfillment as a member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.
Elaine dedicated many years to the St. Petersburg Public Library as a library clerk before retiring. Her love for books and knowledge made this role a natural fit—she found joy in helping others discover the world through reading.
She was a woman of many talents and interests. An accomplished pianist with an ear for music and an eye for beauty, Elaine embraced the arts in all forms. She had a particular fondness for literature and counted Dean Koontz, Oscar Wilde, and Edgar Allan Poe among her favorite authors. Her creativity extended beyond music and books; she had an artistic spirit that shone through in everything she did.
Elaine also had a deep affection for animals and supported numerous charitable organizations throughout her life. Among those close to her heart were the ASPCA, PBS, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, St. Marianne Cope Organization, and her beloved church.
Above all else, Elaine treasured her family. She is survived by her husband of over six decades, Thomas C. Kroha; their children: Thomas C. Kroha Jr., married to Cynthia Kincaid Kroha; Kim K. Kroha, married to David Jarret; and Kelly A. Strong, married to Nolen Strong.
She was predeceased by her son James J. Kroha but leaves behind his children—James Kroha and Tiffany Kroha—as part of her enduring legacy.
Elaine was also blessed with grandchildren Amanda Kroha (married to Scott Platkus) and stepson Anthony Warren (married to Lorna Sanchez). Her joy multiplied with the arrival of great-grandchildren Colin and Landon (Amanda's children), as well as step-great-grandchildren Chloe, Sophie, and Jeremiah (Anthony's children).
Elaine’s warmth touched everyone who knew her—her humor could light up a room; her generosity knew no bounds; her love was steadfast.
A memorial service is Saturday, August 23, at 2:00 PM, at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Guests are welcome to gather one hour prior. Burial will take place at Bay Pines National Cemetery on Monday, August 25, at 10:00 AM.
May Elaine’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her—and may the beauty she brought into this world continue to inspire all whose lives she touched.
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