Elka R. (Stokar) Troutman, age 52 years, of Ashland on Wednesday, April 6, 2016. For 15 years, she was the beloved wife of Jeffery Troutman. Loving mother of Joshua and Jacob Troutman. Cherished daughter of Irwin & Louise (Hoffman) Stokar of Newton. Dear sister of Shari Parks of Watertown, Ellen Stokar of Livingston, NJ, Faith Stokar of Newton, and Jeffrey Stokar of Newton, and adoring sister-in-law of Debbie Troutman of Dayton, OH. Also survived by many devoted nieces, nephews and friends. Elka loved to read and was particularly passionate about promoting children's literacy. She served as the coordinator for the Ashland Summer Reading Program for many years and loved encouraging kids to embrace books as a window to their own imaginations. Above all Elka loved and was loved by her family. A self-described "bookworm" she nevertheless learned the finer points of several different sports so she could cheer on her sons with fierce loyalty. Her bond with her husband Jeff was unbreakable, and her daily phone calls with her mother and Faith were often short, but rarely missed. She will live on in the hearts of so many who cared deeply for her. Shiva times are as follows: Monday & Tuesday at the home of Irwin & Louise Stokar. Wednesday at the John Matarese Funeral Home in Ashland from 3pm to 7pm. Thursday and Friday until 4pm at the home of Irwin & Louise Stokar. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in honor of Elka's love of reading to The Friends of the Ashland Public Library, 66 Front Street, Ashland, MA 01721.