Obituary

After a long and fulfilling life, Eleanor passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday July 21, 2025, at St. Luke’s Place, Cambridge, in her 98th year. Beloved mother of Lois Howlett (late Jim 2024) and John Winer (Liz). Cherished Nana to Rob, Becky, Megan and Garett, and proud Great-Nana to eight great-grandchildren.  Eleanor, the daughter of David and Jean (Pinkney) Stewart was raised in Mountsberg. She is predeceased by her family, sister Isabel (Allan) Elliott and brothers Allan (Helen), Walter (Bernice), and Gordon (Mary Jane). In 1951, she married Howard Winer who tragically passed in 1976. Together, they proudly built Melbank dairy farm in their community of Puslinch. Eleanor was a devoted member of Morriston United Church and a caring neighbour to all. She liked to keep active bowling, golfing, knitting and tending to her gardens. She enjoyed traveling, seeing much of Canada, the US, UK and Australia. Well into her later years, she remained a familiar sight in Guelph, out for her walks, running errands, and sharing a kind word with neighbours and friends. She was a dedicated volunteer, generously giving her time to the Guelph General Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Meals on Wheels, the United Church and the Canadian Cancer Society. Her outstanding community service was recognized and awarded with the Ontario Volunteer service award in 2001, as well as the GGH volunteer of the year. Eleanor will be remembered for her kind heart, her gentle spirit, and her unwavering belief in the good in everyone. On meeting her, she never had a harsh word to say, humoured others, smiled and passed with a friendly wave. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of St. Luke’s Place for the exceptional care Eleanor received. Friends and family will be received for visitation at the Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph, Friday, September 12th, 2025 from 1-2pm. Memorial service will begin at 2pm in the funeral home chapel, followed by a reception in the Wall-Custance Family Reception Centre. Arrangements entrusted to the Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com. In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Luke’s Place “Welcome Home” (this supports the new building fund) and would be appreciated. Link: saintlukesplace.ca/fundraising/memorial/. A tree will be planted in memory of Eleanor M. Winer in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.