Eleanor Bonnenfant Wheeler

1939 - 2015

Eleanor M. Bonnenfant Wheeler

May 31, 1939

Oct. 31, 2015

Eleanor Maxine Bonnenfant Wheeler was born in Reno, Nevada. Beloved wife and best friend of David, 55 years. She graduated from University of Nevada, Reno with a B.A. degree in English Literature.

Loving mother of Rebecca Wheeler, Paris Texas; Elaine Wheeler Blackmur (Peter Blackmur) of Washington, Missouri; Jennifer Wheeler Ruse of Rockport, Texas. Cherished Nana to 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. She absolutely enjoyed being an Aunt to her four rambunctious and humorous nephews, Fred, Mark, Scott, and Brian Bonnenfant all of Reno, NV.

Eleanor had a zest for life and was known for her love of cooking. She belonged to the Gourmet Club of Fremont for over 40 years. Eleanor was a passionate hostess, entertaining many, and made anyone in her home feel loved.

She was a faithful San Francisco 49er fan since the mid 1950's and season ticket holder for 41 years. Eleanor attended all 5 Superbowls won by the team. Many will remember her and David for throwing the best tailgate parties, at "The 'Stick".

Eleanor was an avid bird watcher, belonging to several groups over the years. She carried her binoculars and her Birds of North America Field Guide with her everywhere she went. In the Guide, she often wrote the date and location of the birds she observed. She could recognize if a bird was female or male just by listening to their calls.

Among family and close friends she was known to be a strong, fierce, smart, savvy woman. Eleanor had a knack for relishing the present moment and rolling with the punches. One of her favorite sayings was, "This too shall pass."

There will be no services. Her ashes will be interred in the spring in Minden, Nevada where she and David were married.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amvets.org and/or Shrinershq.org. Eleanor was a strong supporter of our military and our veterans. Her husband, father, and brother, are all Shriners, with both Freds being Potentates.

She is preceded in death by her father and mother, Fred and Maxine Bonnenfant; and her brother, Fred Bonnenfant, all of Reno, Nevada.