Eleanor Bear passed away in the evening of September 26th, 2023 in the Briton House Retirement Home at the age of 91. She will be greatly missed by her children, Christine Bear (Kevin Graham), Jane Gilbert (Peter Moore) and Jeffrey Bear (Ewa Henderson). She will also be missed by her grandchildren, Caitie Graham, Jason Deichert and Julie Deichert, her niece, Frances Sutcliffe, her nephew John Westcott and her great grand-daughter, Ionna. She was predeceased by her lovely daughter, Laurie.

Our memories of Eleanor form a rich tapestry, reflecting her varied passions. Eleanor was a musician who inspired many, including her children, to love music. She was an accomplished pianist who continued to play her baby grand piano into her eighties. She also led several wonderful choirs. Early in her life, before she started her family, she led a winning elementary school choir to perform at Massey Hall. Later in life, she inspired adults to enjoy life and companionship through choral singing.

She was an inspiring and well-loved teacher who found her true calling in special education. She encouraged her students to push past their fears. As their advocate, she challenged the administration to provide more for her students - and won.

She was a naturalist at heart, who taught her family to love walks in the woods. In the years to come, we will feel her love and spirit again when we hear her favorite music, hear stories of young people overcoming obstacles, when we see the first trillium in the spring or the first red maple leaf in the fall.

Eleanor's life will be celebrated in a private event in the get-together room of her condominium complex at 4:30 -6:30 Saturday October 7th. Please let Christine know if you will be joining us (christine.bear@gmail.com). Eleanor continuously supported the Canadian Cancer Society and a donation to this foundation would honour Eleanor's memory.