Eleanor P. Lauterbach
Born on September 20, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois, Eleanor was the beloved daughter of Leopold and Erma (Sprandel) Schultz. She shared her journey of siblinghood with her two sisters, Rosemary and Betty June, as well as two brothers, Leo and John. From the earliest days of her life, Eleanor’s endearing nickname, “Tootsie,” reflected the affectionate nature that she would carry with her throughout her years.
Eleanor’s vibrant path led her through Waller High School in Chicago, after which she embarked on a venture to Florida where she became a dedicated swim instructor. Her heart eventually led her back to Chicago, where she united in marriage with Jack Lecas. Their union was blessed with three children: Stacey, John, and Robert, who remain as a testament to Eleanor’s enduring love and guidance.
Eleanor later relocated to Wisconsin, caring devotedly for her mother and uncle. Her devotion extended beyond her family, as she dedicated three decades of service to Adams County as Deputy Treasurer. It was during this time that she married John Lauterbach.
Eleanor’s zest for life was evident in her myriad of interests – from shopping to bowling, gardening to swimming, and savoring the joys of different movies. She loved to cook and particularly her renowned chicken and dumpling soup was a manifestation of her love and care for her family. Her warm and welcoming nature made her the heart of family gatherings, and her sociable spirit resonated with all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Eleanor was reunited in the embrace of eternity with her parents, Leopold and Erma, her stepfather Peter Lewan, her husband’s Jack Lecas and John Lauterbach, her beloved siblings Rosemary, Betty June, Leo Jr., and John Jr. (Pat), her dear aunt Eleanor, and her nephew Mark.
Left to cherish her memory are her devoted children: John (Diane), Robbie, and Stacey (Duane Lenz); her beloved grandchildren: Charlotte, Kelly, Melissa, Jamie (Cheryl), and Theresa; and her treasured great-grandchildren: Amara, Christopher, Mya, Zander, Ryan, Michael, Heather, and Jamie Jr. Eleanor’s love extended to nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a wide circle of friends who shared in her life’s journey.
The celebration of Eleanor’s life will be honored with funeral services at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Interment will follow at the Easton Cemetery. Prior to the service, friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects during visitation hours starting from 12:00 Noon at Roseberry’s Funeral Home.
For those who wish to express their condolences and find additional information, please visit www.roseberrys.com.
Eleanor P. Lauterbach’s life reflects love, laughter, and cherished moments. As we bid farewell to a remarkable soul, let us carry forward her legacy of warmth, generosity, and an unbreakable bond of family and friendship.
My condolences. My sister Judi and I enjoyed Ellie’s company as well as times with her brothers, Leo and Johnny. Lots of good memories.
My sincere sympathy at the loss of your Mother. I enjoyed working with her at the courthouse. We worked in offices right next to each other and Ellie was always such a joy to work with…always a smile to share.
Stacy, John and Robbie. I am so sorry for your loss. We shared many good times together. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻.
My condolences to her family. I loved working with your mother at the court house. She was always happy and easy going lady! Never let those crabby tax payers get to her! Hugs to you.
Very sorry to see that your Mom has passed away, she was a great, great lady. Sincere condolences to her family.
I am deeply sorry for your loss your mom was a very special lady and I will never forget her.So many times I have thought of her and how she was doing she most certainly was a very special person and loved by many.If I had known she was here in the Wisconsin Rapids I most certainly would have been there for her Sending hugs and prayers
My sympathy to the family. I know your Mom will be missed.
My connection with my cousin Tootsie was so long and so deep, I cannot sum it up in a few sentences. As a child I was in awe of my beautiful slightly older cousins Tootsie and Pat. I couldn’t decide who was prettier, one blonde and one with black hair, always dressed in the latest fashions and almost always together since they were the same age and attended the same high school. They even worked at the same company for awhile after high school. Through the years Tootsie had a close bond with my Mom, her godmother, herself not too many years older, and when they couldn’t visit in person, they spent many long hours on the phone sharing confidences. She made many visits to my parents’ home in Florida, and I don’t know anyone who loved going to the beach more than she.
Tootsie spent many years as a single mom and was a devoted daughter to her own mother when her mother was ill, including relocating to Wisconsin to care for her and then later a bachelor uncle. She had a tender heart and spoke glowingly of her grandchildren whenever we talked. She loved having gifts ready to surprise them with when they visited.
She had an amazing memory for all the family events even from very early years, which made for many enjoyable conversations, yet she never spoke unkindly of anyone or disclosed a confidence. I will miss her so much.
Eli was always entertainment at the courthouse. She did her job but she always had something fun going on. I remember she had a curling iron in the back room in case someone needed a touch up!!! My sympathy to you all.
Ele was a force to be reckon with. Remember her fondly from the court house to an occasional happy hour. Good hearted woman for sure. RIP Ele
My condolences to Stacy John and Robby at this difficult time