Eleanor M. Gilstrap

Eleanor M. Gilstrap, 83, a beloved member of the Cherryvale community, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 20, 2025, in Independence, Kansas, surrounded by family.

Eleanor was born on February 28, 1942, in Cherryvale, Kansas the daughter of Lawrence "Bud" Henry Bernd and Leona (Steichen) Bernd. She graduated from Cherryvale High School in 1960 where she laid foundation for a life with love and dedication.

Eleanor married Dean Gilstrap on July 16, 1960, in Cherryvale, and he survives to cherish her memory. Throughout her life, Eleanor was a devoted homemaker, spending many years working alongside Dean as they drove the semi tractor trailer over the road. Earlier in her career, she was a part of the team at Dr. Eastep's dental office in Cherryvale.

Known for her kind and welcoming personality, Eleanor had a unique ability to make everyone feel at ease. She was never afraid to lend a hand, whether that meant getting her hands dirty on the farm or assisting with family events. Eleanor had many hobbies, including solving Sudoku puzzles, mowing the lawn, taking photos, crocheting, cooking, and farming. Her love for spending time with family was evident in everything she did.

Eleanor is survived by her husband Dean, three children: Denise (Rick) Housel of Cherryvale, Kansas, Cindy (Vernon) VanCleave of Lenapah, Oklahoma, and Mike (Greta) Gilstrap of Independence, Kansas. She leaves behind five siblings: Barbara Zorn of Wichita, Kansas, Edward (Caroyln) Bernd of Dennis, Kansas, Jane (Darrell) Trollope of Cherryvale, Kansas, Evelyn (Jack) Ellison of Cherryvale, Kansas, and David (Rita) Bernd of Cherryvale, Kansas. Eleanor was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: Jami Bryant, Dusty Housel, Heather Adney, Aaron Winkleman, Lindsey Garrow, Evan Winkleman, Garrett Gilstrap, and Jenna Gilstrap. She also had the joy of being a great grandmother to 23 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence "Bud" Henry Bernd and Leona Bernd.

The family will greet friends from 5 P.M. until 7 P.M. Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Wickham Family Funeral Home. The reciting of the rosary will start at 7 P.M. at the funeral home.

A Mass will be held in Eleanor's honor on Friday September 26, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Cherryvale, Kansas, beginning at 10:00 AM with Father Zachary Pinaire, celebrant. 

Memorial remembrances are suggested to AWOL and they may be left or mailed to Wickham Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 216 east 4th, Cherryvale, Kansas 67335

Eleanor M. Gilstrap will be remembered fondly for her unwavering love for her family and her warm spirit that touched the lives of many. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and dedication that will long be cherished.