Eleanor G. Koerner

           Mrs. Eleanor G. Koerner (O'Keefe), 94 of Barclay Farms DE died April 17, 2016 of natural causes. Born in Philadelphia, she attended West Catholic High School and remained a loyal sorority sister attending their annual luncheon until her passing. Best remembered for her devotion to her husband and friends, she has out lived most with no complaints.

          Eleanor Koerner was devoted to her husband throughout the 72 years of their marriage.  An early war bride, Mom travelled by train to Soap Lake and Walla Walla, WA. then on to Florida where her husband, Richard “Dick” Koerner departed for Europe with his B-17 group.  She returned home to Philadelphia and waited for her husband to return from his 50 + missions over Europe, Africa and Russia. He did return and in no time Eleanor was mother and house wife from the 1950’s through the 70's.  Supporting Dick's company transfers and promotions throughout her family life, Mom was active in the Altar and Rosary Society, Sewing Club and enjoyed refinishing several pieces of furniture.  In 1970, Dick accepted a transfer to Mexico City, Mexico. There, Eleanor experienced having house maids and a new language.  After four years in Mexico, Dick was transferred to his home office in Toledo, Ohio and Eleanor put her roots down for over 10 years. She enjoyed golfing, cross country skiing, entertaining their good circle of friends and the foreign businessmen Dick invited home.  They retired to Dover, DE and joined the Blue Hen Squadron with all the boating activities. Dick designed a new home for her on Laurel Drive where they met their new neighbors, the Lawters with whom they enjoyed many happy evenings.  With Dick at her side every step, they continued to travel into her late 80's visiting friends and family.  They enjoyed it all until air travel became too much for her.

          Eleanor is survived by her faithful and generous husband, their children and daughters in law in Boston, Charlotte NC, Coeur d'Alene, ID and Spokane, WA. Eleanor was blessed with several nieces and nephews in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, the New England area, Texas and even Canada. By marrying into the Koerner family Eleanor was faced with four sisters-in- law that made sure their loving brother married the right girl even though she attended West Catholic!  She must have been, they have lasted over 72 years! 

          Viewing will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday April 20, 2016 at the Church of the Holy Cross, 631 S. State St., Dover, DE, where the Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 pm.

          Letters of condolences can be sent via www.pippinfuneralhome.com

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