Obituary of Eleanor Louise Wonitoway

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The passing of Eleanor Louise Wonitoway of Hanwell, NB, occurred on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital with family by her side. Born on June 21, 1938 in Durham Bridge, NB, she was a daughter of the late S. Maurice and Mary (Pond) Johnston.

Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Joele Wonitoway (David); grandchildren, Isaac, Avery, Oliver "Ten", Clara, Marion and Barbara; siblings, Dawn Stewart (and the late Kenneth), David Johnston (Rose), Nancy MacFarlane (David) and Jack Johnston (Rika); and cherished nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Eleanor was predeceased by her infant brother, Henry; and common law partner, John Estey.

Eleanor was a woman of faith, family and music. She was known for her quirky sense of humour and quick wit. She was frequently found reading her Bible, praying and, with the introduction of social media, keeping in touch with a large circle of family and friends. She was proud to be a product of “M & M” and a country girl from Durham. She was a member of the Nashwaak Village United Baptist Church and the Upper Durham Women's Institute, forming life-long friendships. Her grandchildren were an especial joy, and she spent many happy hours nuturing and sharing in their passions: they could do no wrong.

Eleanor attended school in Durham and Stanley. She worked in retail, for a bank, and later attended Atlantic Business College to upgrade her skills as a single mother. She worked in the office for Craig Electric until she retired. There she met John Estey who instigated some of the happiest years of her life. Together they enjoyed road trips, good food and especially music. She gained a second family.

The family would like to thank Karla and the staff of Hanwell Special Care Home and the staff of 4NW for the care she received in her final year.

Visitation will take place at York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive, Fredericton, NB on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 from 4-7 pm. The Funeral Service will take place from York Funeral Home's T. Gordon MacLeod Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 1 pm with Pastor Bob McLeod officiating. The service will also be available at www.yorkfh.com (Link at top of the obituary). Interment will take place in Lower Durham Cemetery. For those who wish, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to a charity of the donor's choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com