Eleanor Ann Kurkowski

Eleanor Ann Kurkowski was born on February 3, 1942 in Detroit, Michigan to Sam and Antoinette Sammut. She was one of four children. Eleanor passed away peacefully on June 20, 2024 in Franklin, Tennessee at the age of 82.

Eleanor was the beloved mother of Dorine (Scott) Aberle and Don (Beth) Kurkowski. Loving grandmother of Melanie Kurkowski, Kalahan (Brianna) Aberle, Bradley Kurkowski, Klaire Aberle, and Kamden Aberle. Step-grandmother of Ian Herscher and Ava Herscher. Proud great-grandmother of Oliver Aberle. Dear sister of Walter (Claudia) Sammut.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents; Sam & Antoinette Sammut, and her brothers; Charlie Sammut & Harry (the late Mary Ann) Sammut.

Eleanor was a woman of many talents and had several careers. Starting as a secretary at Saint Genevieve Catholic Church and School, she worked diligently under the guidance of Sister Henrietta and Father Wilbur in the 1970’s and 1980’s.

Transitioning to a career as a ticket agent at renowned race tracks such as Northville Downs, Hazel Park, and Ladbroke DRC, Eleanor embraced the thrill of the racing world in this chapter of her life.

Later, she served in the crucial role of a TSA security officer at West Palm Beach airport, where her commitment to safety earned her respect from colleagues and travelers alike. It was here that she concluded her professional journey, leaving a legacy of service and responsibility.

In her well-deserved retirement, Eleanor found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. She loved working in the kitchen cooking and baking, and was known for her chocolate cake topped with buttercream frosting. She also enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and watching her beloved show, “Wheel of Fortune” night after night and never grew tired of it. Although, her greatest joy was simply to be a mom and grandma.

Eleanor will be remembered for her hard work, her kindness, and her ability to find joy in the everyday. She will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Eleanor’s family will receive friends for a visitation on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152.

Her life will be celebrated with a 10:30am Funeral Mass at St. Genevieve Catholic Church 29015 Jamison St., Livonia, Michigan 48154.

Eleanor will be laid to rest in the mausoleum chapel at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery, Southfield, Michigan.

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