Obituary of Eleanor Marie Roberge

Eleanor Marie “Groovy” Roberge, 86, of State College, PA formerly of Bear, DE passed peacefully on July 18, while in the presence of her daughters. She was born on October 9, 1928 in Wilmington, DE the daughter of Ralph L. and Mildred Cantwell Purnell. The majority of her young life was spent in Penns Grove, NJ where she and her sister “Betty” enjoyed horses and small town life. During these early years is where she developed her love and amazing gift of connecting with animals. Groovy was then married to WWII Navy Vet Raymond L. Roberge on May 4, 1951. Together they had three children Debbie, Ernie and Jackie. Debbie and her husband Ty Marckese live with their son Brent in Bear, DE. Jackie and her husband Rob Oshinskie live in Bellefonte, PA. Her life centered on family and she was especially endeared to her son Ernie, grandson Preston and her brother Ernest. All three of these special young men passed at young ages. Few people loved to laugh and make others laugh as did Groovy. Likely her greatest legacy (aside from her children) is her infectious humor driven by her quick and often unexpected wit. Her humor has left us all with smiles from the memories of her “one liners” and at times devious smile. But, do not be fooled. Despite her love to make light of life she possessed a special wisdom born out of the experiences of a Great Depression, a World War, a brief career as a school bus driver and more than her share of other adversities. Aside from her family, animals, and humor she loved the beach (particularly Ocean City, NJ) war movies and enjoyed entertainers like Dean Martin and Elvis Presley. She is survived not only by those previously mentioned but also her sister Elizabeth “Betty” Logan of Newcastle, DE, Betty’s daughters Eleanor, Carol, Nancy and Betsy as well as a great number of friends. Her life will be celebrated in State College, PA at 1:00 PM on Sunday, July 26, at Victory Sports and Fitness. A second event will be held in Delaware Saturday, August 15, for her final resting place at 11:00 AM, Grace Lawn Memorial Park, New Castle DE. In Lieu of flowers send memorial contributions to your local SPCA or to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, www.pva.org, in memory of Eleanor Marie “Groovy” Roberge Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and a signing book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit on Facebook.