Elaine Chaika, 81

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Elaine Chaika passed away on May 1. Born in 1934 in Milford, Mass., she was a remarkable woman who obtained a Ph.D. in Linguistics from Brown University in 1972 while raising three children. From there she became a professor at Providence College, raising a daughter during her tenure, and retiring in 2008. 

Elaine was a distinguished teacher and researcher, known especially for her pioneering work on schizophrenic speech. She accomplished many of her other ambitions, including writing many articles, scholarly books, a novel and recently a book on the evolution of dogs. She loved traveling, cooking, gardening and animals. She is survived by her husband Bill; children Eric and Dan; and grandchildren Ben, Jon, Rebecca, Alan and Sarah. 

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Providence Animal Rescue League, 34 Elbow St., Providence, R.I. 02903.