Eleanor W. Keener
March 3, 1918 ~ November 6, 2019
Eleanor W. Keener, age 101, of Ashtabula, passed away Wednesday, November 6, 2019 at Ashtabula County Medical Center. She was born March 3, 1918 in Cleveland, the daughter of John and Pauline (Hagadorn) Podges.
Eleanor was a 1935 Graduate of Ashtabula High School and attended Ashtabula Business College. She was a member of Ashtabula First United Methodist Church. She enjoyed playing bridge and was an excellent cook.
She is survived by sons, Melvin (Kay) Keener, David (Jennifer) Keener; daughter, Janice Yourchek; 9 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 3 great -great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin; parents; sister, Gertrude Blaine; brother, Robert Podges; and lifelong friend, Edith Cary. The family would like to thank the nurses of Bella Care Hospice for their loving care.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at Gateway Church, 2300 Austinburg Road in Ashtabula. Pastor Daniel Houck will officiate the service. The family will receive friends for one-hour prior the service at the church. Contributions in Eleanor’s name can be made to Lighthouse Harvest Foundation, 2710 State Road, Ashtabula, OH 44004.
The Behm Family Funeral Home is assisting the family at this time. Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com
Eleanor was my mom's best friend for ninety-seven years. The stories they told about their youth were a hoot (see Star Beacon archives for the PG version). My parents loved being with her and Bud. No matter how long a wonderful person is on this earth, it's never long enough. My sisters and I loved her. Heartfelt condolences to the Keener family.
Eleanor was my mother's best friend for ninety-seven years. The PG version of their younger lives together are in the Beacon archives. Mom and Dad so enjoyed being with Eleanor and Bud, and my sisters and I loved her. Heartfelt condolences to the Keener family.
Eleanor played an integral part in my development as a wife, mother and daughter—in-law. She taught me the importance of being a good hostess and of always having food available for those who may drop in. I loved her and took care of her out of the goodness of my heart. Did I complain? Yes. Did I get mad from time to time? Yes. Did I grow weary? Yes. But I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity that it gave me to grow into the woman I am today. Thank God and thank you Eleanor. Rest In Peace.
Mel, So sorry for the loss of your Mother… She was a very unique lady with great stories of her life throughout the years. Condolences to you and all your family .?Nancy
Dave – sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.\nPhil
Janice, Dave and Families,\n I'm so sorry to hear about your Mother. What an accomplishment to live to 101! My thoughts and prayers will be with you at this difficult time.