Evelyn L. Kooken, age 95, of Shelby, passed away early Sunday morning, March 29, 2026, at Wedgewood Estates in Mansfield, where she had resided for the past several months.
Evelyn was born January 5, 1931, in Bucyrus, the daughter of the late Arthur M. and Iva N. (Fetter) Veil. A 1948 graduate of Bucyrus High School, she soon after married her high school sweetheart, Jack C. Kooken, on May 31, 1948. Together they celebrated 75 years of marriage before his passing on January 6, 2024.
Evelyn was a longtime, faithful, and active member of the First United Methodist Church in Shelby, joining shortly after her marriage to Jack. They faithfully served the church in various ways, with Evelyn being active in Challengers Sunday School Class, Woman’s Group, and had been a Sunday School Teacher to the youth for many years. Professionally, Evelyn served as the church secretary at Shelby First Presbyterian Church for 35 years.
Evelyn and Jack had a joyful and active life together. They were devoted fans of any and all Shelby Whippet athletics, faithfully attending and supporting the Whippets for many years. They also enjoyed bowling in various leagues and cherished annual trips to Lakeside- a tradition that began prior to their marriage yet remained steady their whole lives.
Evelyn found great joy in God’s creation through gardening, especially tending to her roses, and birdwatching. She was a beautiful seamstress and cross stitcher, having crafted countless pieces over the years, and was also an avid reader. As a good cook, but more importantly as a wife, mother, and grandmother, she was devoted to having family dinners and holiday gatherings. And her generosity as a friend shone brightly in many ways but remained constant at Christmastime where she would spend extensive time baking dozens and dozens of cookies and deliver them to family and friends each Christmas Eve.
Evelyn is survived by her children: Elaine Adkins (Paul Valgas) of Shelby and her sons: Jeff (Sondra) Adkins, Craig Adkins, and Chris (Emily) Adkins; Gary (Jill) Kooken of Bluffton, SC and their children: Stacie (Matthew) Eaton and Dominick Pica; Dan (Trish) Kooken of Hardeeville, SC and their children: the late Eric Kooken, Megan Fields, Courtney Fields, and Erin (John) Jones; and the late Brian L. Kooken and his daughter: Angela (Mike) Mahek. Also surviving are 17 great grandchildren; 3 great great grandchildren; sister-in-law: Mary Beth Saunders of Galion; and other relatives and friends. In addition to her beloved husband, parents, son, and grandson, Evelyn was preceded in death by her son-in-law: Thomas L. Adkins and brother: Charles W. Veil.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 11 am at the First United Methodist Church, 18 South Gamble Street, Shelby. Family and friends may gather at the church one hour prior to the services from 10-11 am. Pastors Michael Padula and Diego Sandino will officiate, with burial following in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby. Memorial contributions may be made to the church.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s Facebook page or website (PenwellFuneralHome.com).
So sorry for your loss. Your mother was such a pleasant, caring woman. Am thankful I got to visit with her and have happy times eating out at different restaurants. Heaven has gained a wonderful lady.
I am so sorry for your loss what a lovely lady she was to work for in her flower beds. May she rest in piece
Elaine I am so sorry to hear of your Mothers passing. Praying for strength and peace for your family. ❤️🙏🌹
Elaine and family. Your mother was such a dear person, I always enjoyed being with her as we helped with different church activities. May all the wonderful memories you have of her bring you comfort. God bless, Barb Ingram
What a beautiful tribute for a wonderful, faithful, godly woman. Her legacy here is apparent and her eternal legacy is even greater. I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. Praying for peace during this time.
Elaine , Dan, gary and family sending my sympathy .
So sorry to hear of Evelyn’s passing, she was a very sweet lady. My mom worked with Jack at Shelby insurance and he was quite the character but very nice. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Evelyn was a very sweet lady with a beautiful smile and soul she will be loved and missed. May She R.I.P. Forever With Our Good Lord In Heaven Above. Our Thoughts And Prayers Are With You All!!!
We are saddened with the news of your dear Mother’s passing. You all have our sincere sympathy. John & JoAnn
Dan and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. It brought me joy throughout the years to see your parents at sporting events or grocery shopping at Cornell’s. They were a wonderful couple.
Having someone like this to see you and great grandchildren is a blessing! I am very sorry for your loss.
Evelyn was a wonderful office assistant for my husband, Rev James Smith. Condolences to her large family.
so sorry for your loss. may she rest in peace 🙏
Sorry,for your loss. Prayers for all
Thinking of the Kooken family at this time. We wll keep you in our prayers.
I remember her well serving as a Sunday School Teacher at 1st Methodist. My sincere condolences to Elaine, Dan and Gary.
Prayers of God’s comfort to all the family in dealing with her loss.
Dan, Elaine, Gary and families, Nancy and I extend our sympathy to you all on Evelyn’s passing. I know my parents enjoyed their many years of friendship with your mom and dad.
Bob & I are so sorry for your loss. Your parents were quite the couple & highly thought of. Treasure the memories.
Elaine we are so sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing. We just loved your Mom and Dad. You are in our thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort. Cindy and Duke Montgomery.
Dear Elaine and family,
Sorry for your loss of your Mom. I just saw this since returning home and I wanted to reach out. She was a Dear lady!