Obituary of Eleanor Gastiger

Eleanor H. Gastiger, 87, of State College, PA, passed away Friday, April 13, 2012 She was preceded in death by her husband Ellwood "Whitey" Gastiger and brother, Robert E. Soehngen. She leaves behind one son, Gerard (Duke) Gastiger, fiancée Monica Manning, one grandson Jeremy Gastiger, wife Missy, sister-in-law, Miriam Soehngen and nieces and nephews. Eleanor grew up in Brooklyn and Queens, New York where she met and married her husband, Whitey. Married for 46 years, they moved from NY to King of Prussia, PA and retired in Niceville, FL. very near her beloved brother Bob. After Whitey's death in 1992, Bob, nephew Bob Jr. and wife Sandy helped mom with daily life. As health was declining, last year she moved from Florida to State College, PA where her son, "Duke", his fiancée, Monica, grandson, Jeremy, and his wife, Missy, all live. She resided at Elmcroft Senior Living Center and made many wonderful friends there. Eleanor loved her family dearly and adored her grandson, Jeremy. She cherished the time she was able to spend with her son, grandson, and family while living in State College. Eleanor was a devout Catholic and was very active in her church in Florida, Holy Name of Jesus. She loved the beach, playing bridge with friends, her dog Colby and quilting. While living in King of Prussia, she worked as a secretary in the public elementary schools and made many friends. Over the years, she enjoyed long-term relationships with her co-workers. Eleanor maintained friendships with childhood friends, regularly corresponding with them up until her death. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Eleanor's honor to your favorite children's charity. A mass to celebrate Eleanor's life will be held Thursday, April 19, at 10a.m. at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, Niceville, FL.