Eleanor Lillian Erickson of Waupaca, formerly of Chicago, 91, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on February 19, 2015 at Bethany Home.
Born May 17, 1923, the only child of Clarence and Lillie (Elmland) Erickson, Eleanor lived in the house her father built for 80 years before moving to Waupaca, Wisconsin. Faithful and loyal are words that describe her life. She worked 40 years for the same company, Aldens, in Chicago. When her family reached out to a neighbor child who had lost her mother, Eleanor and Amy (Thonander) Oare became lifelong best friends. She became a faithful and loyal “Aunt” to the four Oare children and never missed a special day in their lives by sending a card or gift. They and her surviving cousins, Alice Marie (Erickson) Olsen, Marlene (Lindskoog) Goodman and Rev. James Lindskoog all mourn her passing. Eleanor was a talented musician and played piano and organ and sang solos and in the choir in her church for many years. She also taught Sunday School. In her retirement she also served as secretary at two churches. She was very proud of her Swedish heritage and often gave bread or coffee cakes from the Swedish bakery in Chicago as gifts. Eleanor loved to travel and made many trips throughout the country to visit national parks and other places of interest. She also made several international trips. In later years she derived great pleasure from the company of her cats.
The entire Oare family wishes to express our thanks and gratitude to the staff of Bethany Home for the wonderful care provided for Eleanor in her last years. A memorial service for Eleanor will be held sometime in the spring in Chicago. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.