Elena Mandara, 62 of Vero Beach, FL, passed away on June 13, 2013 at Midwestern Regional Medical Center, in Zion, IL, after a long battle with cancer.

Elena was born December 30, 1950 in Hackensack, NJ. She graduated from Hackensack High School and became a Certified Nursing Assistant. She was involved in working for schools, serving on the Indian River School Board. She worked for Vero Beach High School and Gifford Junior High School for 7 years, and was currently working as a cook for Fellsmere Elementary School for the last 3 years. Elena loved quilting and knitting, but also had a deep love for animals, especially chickens and her 2 dogs, Janeathon and Dominic. She was fond of the country life style and had many farm animals from sheep to bulls. For Elena, Sunday’s were a day of rest. She and her son Rocky would have movie marathons, and they especially loved watching Columbo or Married with Children. Recently, Elena and Rocky made a 1,300 mile trip to Zion, IL. For Rocky, those were the best days, and he will greatly miss his "Mudda."

Elena is survived by her loving son, Rocky Mandara; a good friend and ex-husband, George; and numerous relatives in New Jersey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Marie Ulturale; Grandma Camella; and a great-grandmother.

Elena's family would like to thank the staff at Midwestern Regional Medical Center for the loving care and support they showed Elena during her time of need. She was a strong woman, but never showed her pain. Memorial donations are suggested to the Family. "You always picked me up when I was down and you made me the person who I am today. I love you mom, can’t wait to see you again." Love Rocky.