Eleanor Henoch

Henoch, Eleanor Mary

(nee Watson-Wemyss)

Born May 17, 1920 in Edinburgh, Scotland to Violet and Herbert Watson- Wemyss.  She passed away April 2nd, 2020 in Ottawa Ontario in her 100th year.  She was predeceased by her husband Wladyslaw Henoch (2000) and son Peter (1990).  She is survived by her children: John, Eleanor (Fred Braman), Christopher (Gloria), Mary (Bruce Stewart), Ann, Susan (Bob Gallagher) and Basia “Barbara” as well as by ten grandchildren: Zach and Chris Braman, Michael Henoch, Elizabeth Glover and Andrew Stewart, Scott and Cynthia Patterson, Carley and Andrea Gallagher, and Clare Shuley, and nine great grandchildren.

Eleanor met her future husband, a Polish officer, during the war in 1940 and they were married in Edinburgh on April 3, 1945.

By 1948 they had three children and emigrated from Britain to Canada to start farming near Welland Ontario. In 1956 they sold the farm and moved to Ottawa where they settled in the Glebe. Over the years the family grew to eight children and Eleanor devoted her time to being a full-time mother.  Eleanor was lover of languages (she understood and spoke French, Polish and some Spanish) and was an avid reader.  In later years she enjoyed Elder Hostel activities and travelling to countries including Portugal, Poland, France, Spain, Italy, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, the United States, many parts of Canada. Despite her declining health in the last few months, she was even interested to hear about the Covid-19 pandemic and was curious to learn more about current events.

Eleanor was a loving, devoted and generous mother and grandmother. Stoic, practical, intelligent and bright, she followed news, kept track of her entire family’s birthdays and special occasions.  An avid scrabble player, she would give the best players a good run for their money.  Other favourite hobbies included crossword puzzles, watching Jeopardy, cookies, chocolate and the occasional sip of sherry. Eleanor’s faith was very important to her; she attended St. Stephen’s Anglican Church every Wednesday until recently. She was proud of her uncanny ability to know her way around. It is not clear how the Unitarian House van will find its way around town without her directions!

Eleanor enjoyed living at Unitarian House and was a resident for almost 22 years. She always appreciated the thoughtful and compassionate care of the professional and caring staff.  Similarly the family is deeply thankful for all the careful planning and helpfulness from Champlain LHIN, Paramed Home Health Care, Bayshore Health and Ottawa West Community Support.  In the difficult times of the pandemic, all have given beyond the call of duty.

Due to Covid-19, a funeral service in memory of Eleanor will be held at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Ottawa at a later date.

If desired, donations to Unitarian House or St. Stephen’s Anglican Church would be appreciated.

Condolences, memories or donations may be made at www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com.

Eleanor will be greatly missed by so many.