Eleanor Rose Galkowski, 79, of Tryon, N.C., passed away Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015 in White Oak Manor, Tryon, N.C.

Born in Milwaukee, Wisc. she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Bernice Galkowski and was first married to Richard “Tony” Nekich, who preceded her in death.

Eleanor was an art student who loved oil painting and sculpting.   She received her associates degree later in life and worked in bookkeeping and accounting.  After moving to Tryon in 2004 Eleanor greatly enjoyed the mountains, the company of her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren and her cat Olivia.

Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Pamela Patterson (Ron) of Green Creek, N.C.; twin sister Patricia Altenburg and sister Esther Zobel  both of Milwaukee, Wisc.; grandchildren, Brendan  Palmer  (Antoinette), Selena Patterson, and twins, Alicia Patterson (Greg Wallace) and Ian Patterson.  Also surviving are great-grandchildren Eris and Selah Palmer. She was preceded in death by a son Richard Lee Nekich, who died June 1, 2009.

Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 16, 2015 in the McFarland Funeral Chapel, Tryon, N.C. The family will create a prayer garden to honor her memory at home, according to her wishes.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Dr., Columbus, N.C. 28722.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel
Tryon, N.C.