Cynthia Ann Elston

March 17, 1948 – October 10, 2018

On Wednesday, October 10, 2018, Cynthia A. Elston, of Denver, age 70, quietly passed away. She was the beloved mother of Katherine Elston and mother-in-law of Gene Plaks, cherished sister of Rita Cionitti, Tom Elston, several half-sisters, loving aunt to Aaron (Erica) Applegate, Brandon Applegate, Corey (Brianna) Applegate, and Thomas Elston. Cynthia treasured her little great-niece Evelyn Applegate.

Cynthia was born in Wooster, Ohio to Aloise and Louise Tigri Elston. She lived in the central Ohio area with her parents and siblings until leaving for college at Ohio State University in 1966. The expansive, deep blue skies of Colorado drew her out west in 1976, and she settled in Denver where she lived for the rest of her life. Cynthia drove a school bus for Denver Public Schools for 28 years. After retiring from DPS, she went to work for a PACE provider, supporting her clients with every day care. She worked on the Living Legacy program during this time, recording stories and memories of her elderly participants.

During her lifetime, Cynthia had many interests including photography, thrifting for treasures, gardening, traveling, collecting Catholic iconography, visiting her daughter in New York City, oral history traditions, and exploring her Italian heritage. As a young woman, she established everlasting friendships with numerous people from all walks of life, that in many instances, lasted upwards of 60 years.

Cynthia was a trailblazer, and having a child was a big aspect of her vanguard. Her daughter Katherine was the delight & wonder of her life. Watching her grow up, graduate college, establish herself, find her life partner, and get married brought her much happiness.

She was known as a loving, funny, and straightforward woman. She broke all the rules. She wouldn’t hesitate to share her opinion or tell you how she felt; she was fiercely loyal. Her favorite poet, Mary Oliver, perhaps best sums her up: When it’s over, I want to say: all my life I was a bride married to amazement. I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms.

She will be dearly missed.

Memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 3rd at 2pm, with reception to follow.
First Unitarian Society of Denver
1400 N Lafayette St, Denver, CO 80218

Cards and condolences can be sent to 7671 E. Cedar Ave, Denver, CO  80230