Eleanor Mildred McWhannel

On behalf of myself and my sons, Graeme, Mark & Scott Fattedad, I wish to extend our sincere condolences. All my sons went to South Park Elementary and I always found Eleanor cheerful, welcoming and helpful. She was a great support to me with my son, Scott, who has Down Syndrome. She also got your Dad to help mentor Mark in an enrichment program he was in and they had a great time together. I lost both my parents very close together just over a year ago so I know what a difficult time this is. May wonderful memories of your parents ease your loss as time goes by. Sincerely, Mary Lynn Cassels

I met Eleanor many years ago when she had just been hired as the new principal at Cougar Canyon Elementary. At that time it was just a small, rickety portable behind the high school. I hadn't expected to get the job because I had been told that they were looking to hire a male teacher. I walked into a tiny "office" where Eleanor sat preparing for the interview. Eleanor looked rather overwhelmed and began asking the usual questions. During the interview we were probably interrupted 4-5 times for phone calls--which she had to answer as there wasn't even a secretary at that time. Her final question was "And what else do you consider to be your strengths?" Not expecting to get the job (and being young and brash) I promptly responded "I dance on tabletops." I found out the next day that she had hired me because of my sense of humour which she felt was going to needed in the circumstances. There are so many fun stories of our early years at CC but I will always remember Eleanor as the person who "made" that dilapidated little portable into one of the finest schools in BC. Having lost my own mother in May, I understand your sorrow, Tony. She truly was an extraordinary woman.

Dear Tony and Michelle, Please accept my condolences for the passing of your mother Eleanor. I had the privelidge of meeting Eleanor during my daughter's very first visit to South Park School to register for Kindergarten. Eleanor was so welcoming and friendly with such a bright smile, the nerves imediately left both of us! Twenty years later I was thrilled to reaquaint with Eleanor when I became a member of the Tsawwassen Rotary Club. Your Mother was a person I truly admired!

Tony, I was so sorry to hear about your mother's passing. My apologies for not contacting you sooner but this is the 4th place I have lived in during the past 3 months. Internet service has been hit and miss. Finally got permanently connected and found an e-mail sent from Billie D regarding your Mother. I know how you must feel. The loss of of a loved one still impacts me very much, even after 2 years. You, Michelle and the boys are in my thoughts. Chris

Dear Tony, We were saddened to read the news of the passing of your mother, Eleanor. We knew Eleanor and Doug well and met you many years ago when you were in grade 5 or 6 in Ladner. I was the principal at Chalmers for four years when Eleanor was the librarian and later, when I worked in the Board office, I had the pleasure of appointing her to the principalship of Cougar Canyon, our new showcase school. I also had the privilege as a member of the Ladner Rotary club to nominate her for the new Rotary Club in Tsawwassen, knowing what a valuable contribution she would make to the club and to Rotary. She was an inspiring and dedicated educator, friend and colleague and it was a privilege to know both her and Doug. We miss them very much, as you and your family must do. We now live on Saltspring Island having moved here 15 years ago, but if we can possibly come over to Delta to attend the Celebration of Eleanor's life in Tsawwassen on August 26th we shall do so. I'm sure than many people will wish to share with everyone their memories of Eleanor but I would feel privileged to contribute too if you wished. I would understand if that wouldn't be possible, given the large number of friends and relatives who knew and loved her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Michelle,Sam and Pierre. Love, Bill and Margaret Wakefield

Eleanor, my mentor and buddy, I learned so much from you, by osmosis, due to your common sense, decorum and joie de vivre. We did such funny, silly things and each time I think of something else, I shake my head and break into a smile. You and Doug were invaluable. My deepest condolences to wonderful Tony and family, and to very dear Catherine and family. Trudie Cole, Australia

Our deepest sympathies Tony. We send a little piece of our hearts with our parents when they go, no matter what age. The treasured memories are what pulls us through and gives us strength. Keep that twinkle in your eye - your Mum would want that. Helen & Alain

Tony and Michelle what another heart ache for you and the boys. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Such a loss for you both. Be strong and carry love forward.

Eleanor's competence, intelligence, leadership style and approachability were my reasons for choosing to send 2 of my 3 children to South Park Elementary School where Eleanor was the Principal. In later years, she continued her friendly practical style with casual conversation in the local grocery. At the time, she provided a tremendous model for all teachers, especially women in administrative roles.