Elaine Esther Eichler

   It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Elaine Esther Eichler, a devoted wife, loving mother and sister, and proud grandmother and great-grandmother.

   Elaine was born on March 22, 1937, in Wilmington, Delaware, the second daughter of Jennie Kendall and George Duncan. A lifelong Delaware resident, Elaine graduated from Wilmington High School and went on to work for many years for First Federal Savings and Loan Association, Beneficial Corporation and Astra-Zeneca Corporation. She also worked part time for the Friendly Gift Shop.

   Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Thomas J. Eichler, her son Thomas F. Eichler and her sister Florence Klimas. She is survived by her son Paul (Lynn), grandchildren Steven (Briana), William, John, Amanda (Josh) and Daniel, great grandson Bennet, and former daughter-in-law Katherine Eichler.

   Elaine will be remembered for her tenderness, creativity, and strong devotion to her faith. An avid collector, the memory of Elaine’s collections of teddy bears, cardinals, and yarn will serve as touching reminders of her heart and imagination. She deeply valued the relationships she built with members of Christ Church in Dover, Delaware, and with her weekly card playing group which kept her mind sharp and spirits high. A talented and dedicated knitter and quilter, her creations have been shared widely amongst her family and social circles, as well as by her prayer shawl group from Christ Church. 

   Services for Elaine will be held at Trader Funeral Home in Dover on Thursday, September 3. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service that will begin at 12:00 p.m. Interment will be held at Mt. Salem Cemetery in Wilmington at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Christ Church Dover or Delaware Hospice.