April 9, 1937 - June 23, 2011

It is with great sadness that her family announces the passing of Eleanor McWhannel. She died peacefully in her sleep on June 23rd, predeceased by her husband Douglas in November 2010.

Eleanor is survived by her son Tony (Michelle) and grandchildren Sam and Pierre, whom she was "not so quietly" proud of. She was greatly loved by her sister, Catherine (David), brothers, Bert (Liz), Frank (Arla) and Warren (Bev), and sister-in-law Vi (Tommy), and all of their children. "Auntie Eleanor" had a particularly close relationship with Erin, Kendra and Noah James.

She was born in Kelowna to Rob and Kathleen Hewlett, into a big and loving family. She grew up in many small towns in the Interior completing her High School Graduation in Kamloops as the Top Academic student in 1955. After receiving her Teacher Certification at the University of Victoria she began her teaching career in Creston. Graduating with B.Ed. and M.Ed. Degrees from UBC, she worked in Delta as a librarian/teacher. She was one of the first women principals in BC, opening Cougar Canyon Elementary in 1981 and went on to become a board office director. She made many lifelong friendships because of her genuine concern for children and fellow teachers. Following retirement she became a charter member of the Rotary Club of Tsawwassen and its president in 1995/96, where she made many friends. She was blessed to have the companionship of Brenda during the past year. Throughout life, she embodied the values of "Service Above Self" and will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Eleanor's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 26, 2011 in the Fellowship Hall at the South Delta Baptist Church, 1988-56 Street, Tsawwassen, B.C.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Eleanor's memory may be made to the Rotary Club of Tsawwassen, PO Box 1405, Delta, BC V4M 3Y8.

Online condolences may be made at www.myalternatives.ca.

Alternatives Funeral &
Cremation Services
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