Obituary of Eleanor Doreen Kushner
KUSHNER, Eleanor Doreen (nee Bunes)
January 26, 1934 – February 8, 2018
On February 8, 2018, our beloved Mother and Grandmother, Eleanor Kushner, entered into the gates of heaven at the age of 84 years at (Sagewood Seniors Centre) in Strathmore. Her journey ended as she had lived, surrounded by the love of her family who treasured her. Although we will miss her terribly, we are grateful she can finally rest and be reunited with loved ones who had gone before her.
Eleanor was born January 26, 1934 in Shortdale, Manitoba to Carl and Johanna Bunes. The family lived for many years in Dauphin, Manitoba before moving to Penticton, B.C. After the sudden death of her father, Eleanor and her mother, Johanna spent time with her sister Vivian and husband, Eddy in Montreal. Eleanor attended business school in Montreal and worked for Sunlife Assurance Company.
On May 1, 1955, Eleanor married the love of her life, Walter Kushner at Claresholm. After settling for a time on the family farm in Manitoba, they returned to Alberta, where they purchased a home in Champion and resided for over 30 years.
After the tragic passing of their son, Kerry in 1975, Eleanor’s relationship with her Lord and Saviour never wavered, and her faith became a beacon of light by which she led her family. Eleanor clung to her faith in her final hours, speaking the name of Jesus as often as she was able.
Eleanor was actively involved in the Champion Congregational Church and was a member of the Christian Women’s Association. She enjoyed aerobics and was often a weekly instructor of the community group she was a part of. She enjoyed reading, gardening, going for long walks, listening to music and singing silly songs to her grandchildren. She treasured her family and soaked in every moment she could be with her loved ones. Her courage and strength were apparent during the four years she cared for our dad after he suffered a stroke.
In recent years, Eleanor moved to Strathmore, where she was able to be closer to her family.
Eleanor was a loving mother to her son, Craig (Deb) of Calgary, her daughter, Marcia (Dave) Hagedorn of Langdon, seven grandchildren James, Nichole (David) Toone, David (Kinga Kovacs), Leah, Matthew, Tristan and Brianna, two great grandchildren, Michael and Gwenyth, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Eleanor was predeceased by her son Kerry in 1975, and her husband Walter in 2004. She was the last of her eleven brothers and sisters.
There was a special place in mom’s heart for her grandchildren, who will miss her dearly. She was also very special to the many young people who were a part of her grandchildren’s lives and loved many of them like her own.
There will be a Celebration of Life for Eleanor on Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Champion Congregational Church, in Champion with Reverend David Skinner and Barb Roycroft officiating. Interment to follow in the Champion Cemetery.
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91 verse 1.
In lieu of flowers, tributes in Eleanor’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories, 308, 14925 – 111 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T5M 2P6
To send condolences, please click the link below or email directly to: condolences@wheatlandfuneralhome.ca
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