Eleanor Jankowski

Eleanor “Ellie” Jankowski, 97, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2026 in Miller’s Merry Manor, Walkerton.

Ellie was born on February 22, 1929 to Edward and Agnes (Bajucz) Siderits. As a young girl, Ellie enjoyed participating in the Hungarian Harvest Dances wearing traditional Hungarian costumes.

Ellie married Vic Jankowski on November 15, 1947. Ellie and Vic enjoyed dancing together and won several contests dancing the polka and jitterbug. Vic preceded her in death along with her parents, beloved brother Joey Siderits, his wife Gloria and many half/step sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and in-laws. Ellie was also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Pete Sanders, long-time partner, Frank Horvath and dear friend, Bernie Rakowski.

Surviving are her son, Ed (Debbie) Jankowski and daughter, Keyna (Brad) Atkinson. Grandchildren, Stevie (Shannon), Shanda (Matt), Howard (Ross), Daryl (Liz) and Rachel (Ray). Great grandchildren, Garrett, Jacob, Cynthia, Colby, Chandler, Casey, Catie, Rayden and Renee. Great-great grandchildren, Hope, Julian and Vincent. Ellie is also survived by a half brother, Rudy (Janet) Patus, sisters-in-law, Sophia Niezgodski and Elaine Dulcet, many nieces and nephews and dear friend, Wilma Hoath.

Spending time with family gave Ellie the most joy. Sharing stories of her younger days, which usually started with “we weren’t hooched up, we were just feeling good” was a source of entertainment to her grandkids. Ellie practiced her Catholic faith regularly by watching Sunday mass and saying the rosary. She also enjoyed spending time by the water, euchre games, playing the slots and scratching lucky lottos.

Cremation has taken place. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, April 24, 2026 at 11:00am in St. Matthew Cathedral.  Family and friends may gather one hour before the mass at the cathedral.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Memphis, TN.  To leave an online condolence, visit our website http://www.zahoran.com or our facebook page Zahoran Funeral Home.

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