Eleanor Larsen

Eleanor Larsen, 96, of St. Joseph, passed away Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at the home where she had lived for seventy years.  In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home or the Humane Society of SW Michigan. Online condolences may be left at www.starks-menchinger.com .  Eleanor ”Ellie” was born January 6, 1921, to Joseph and Augusta (Feifer) Gustaitis in Chicago, IL. After growing up poor in Chicago, an ego trip for her was attaining the position of Assistant Editor for Industry Power Magazine on Navy Pier. Upon moving to St. Joseph, she worked in Whirlpool’s Purchasing Department for 30 years, retiring from there. Ellie considered raising two children as a single mother her greatest accomplishment. Her other loves were yoga, golf, volunteering, and creating beautiful gardens in her own yard.  Ellie is survived by her daughter, Carole (David) Van Antwerp; three grandchildren, Chad Olmsted of San Diego, CA, Jack Van Antwerp, D. Paul (Jenny Grove) Van Antwerp; special friends Sandy (Les) Page and Lori Mizwicki, as well as her beloved Cocker Spaniel, Sandi. She was preceded in death by her parents and son Robert “Bob” Larsen.