Eleanore Kleist

1918 - 2017

Eleanore Ann Kleist

01/11/2017

Eleanore Ann Kleist, 98, of Rocky River Ohio, and Fort Myers Florida, died Wednesday January 11, 2017 in Fort Myers Florida. Eleanore was born in Lakewood, Ohio on June 12, 1918. She attended Ohio Wesleyan University and after graduation, worked for the East Ohio Gas Company. Eleanore and Peter Kleist met in the summer of 1938 and upon graduation, were married April 5, 1941. They came to Fort Myers in the early 1950's because of Peter's business. They lived in his development of Town and River Estates. They were long time members of Cypress Lake Methodist Church. Eleanore was involved in many organizations, Reading for the Blind, Teaching for Literacy Volunteers, and Smoke Enders. Peter and Eleanore were true philanthropists, always striving to make a difference in the lives of others. Eleanore was one of the original Grand Dames with Barbara B Mann and Berne Davis. Eleanore exemplified community service, perseverance, courage, wisdom, grace, and compassion. A true "Lady", she was a model and inspiration for many.

Eleanore was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Anna Pottman, her husband Peter, and their only son David. She is survived by her daughters Kathryn Ann Kleist and Donna Marie Kleist, seven grandchildren, and ten great grandchildren

If you wish to honor her memory, a donation can be made to the FGCU Kleist Health Education Center, Pace Center for Girls, or Hope Hospice.