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 sister: 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).

Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home

Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com