Eleanor M. (McKenna) Gilpin

Eleanor M. "Ellie" Gilpin, 89 a beacon of joy and adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family and friends at home, on April 19, 2025, in Scottdale, Pennsylvania. Born on November 9, 1935, in Connellsville, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Joseph W. and Sanna E. Coldsmith McKenna. Eleanor lived a vibrant life filled with passion, dedication, and a love for the great outdoors. A proud graduate of Connellsville High School's Class of 1953, Eleanor's youthful energy was evident as she was crowned senior Queen and led the crowd with her spirited cheerleading. Her academic journey continued as she honed her organizational skills at a secretarial school, which paved the way for a fulfilling career. For 18 years, Eleanor served as where she ran the punch cards thru the IBM computers at West Penn Power, where her diligence and professionalism were greatly valued. Beyond her secretarial roles, Eleanor's zest for life shone through her 40-year tenure as a ski school instructor at Hidden Valley and Nemacolin. Her love for winter sports also led her to a decade of service at Seven Springs Willi’s Ski Shop. Her diverse career also included stints at PowerX, Frick Hospital, and Westmoreland County Community College, showcasing her versatility and commitment to excellence. Eleanor's interests were as varied as they were lively. From She found much pleasure in skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, and dancing, hunting and aerobics where she embraced every opportunity to stay active. Her garden was a testament to her love for the earth, and her skills in snorkeling and swimming revealed her affinity for water. A lover of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Eleanor's enthusiasm was infectious, whether cheering on her favorite team or teaching her grandchildren the joys of an active lifestyle. Her dedication to service was exemplified by her involvement in the Girl Scouts of America, where she achieved the esteemed highest rank. Eleanor's leadership and belonging to numerous leagues kept her active as well. Her nurturing spirit made a lasting impact on the young lives she guided. Eleanor's role as a grandmother was perhaps her most cherished. She was an amazing presence in her grandchildren's lives, teaching them a multitude of skills and instilling in them the same adventurous spirit that she lived by every day. Eleanor leaves behind a legacy of love and adventure, carried on by her devoted daughters, Kelly S. Tullio and her husband Randy of Everson, and Suzanne B. Brown and her husband Richard of Scottdale. Her Grandchildren, Rikki J. Swink and her husband Cyle of Adah, and Sarah B. Brown and Morgan Brown, both of Scottdale. She will also be fondly remembered by her brother-in-law, Joseph P. Grimm of Connellsville; sister-in-law, Irene McKenna of Connellsville; niece, Mary Ann Mihaly Hegedus and her husband George of Millsboro, Delaware; nephew, Charlie McKenna of Connellsville; and cousin, Mike McKenna and his wife Paula of Florida. In addition to her Parents, she was preceded in death by, her sister, Susanna Grimm (2010), and brother, Patrick J. McKenna. In honoring Eleanor's wishes, there will be no visitation or services. Her Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to the Frank Kapr Funeral Home, Inc. 417 Pittsburgh St. Scottdale, Pa. 15683. To view online obituary, send online condolences, please visit www.kapr.com

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