Eleanor Eckholm

Castleton- It is with deep love and remembrance that we celebrate the life of Eleanor Eckholm, a beloved mother, Baba, Teta, sister, and friend. Eleanor, age 78, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on June 25, 2026.

Born in Manhattan and raised on the vibrant Lower East Side, Eleanor possessed a lifelong passion for exploration and movement. After traveling extensively, living in Reston, VA, she found her true home and peace in the country outside of Hudson, New York.

Family was the absolute center of Eleanor's world. Living alongside her sister, she helped create a warm, bustling home where she raised her two children alongside her four nieces and nephews. Her home was defined by unconditional love, shared laughter, and an open heart.

A lifelong lover of art and creativity, Eleanor pursued a dream that reflected both her determination and her curiosity. As an adult, she returned to school and graduated from Columbia-Greene Community College in 1997 with a degree in Fine Arts. It was an accomplishment she was deeply proud of and one that reflected her belief that it is never too late to learn, grow, and follow one's passions.

She is survived by her devoted children, Tessa Eckholm and Milan Eckholm (Julie Eckholm); her cherished grandchildren, Caroline and Chandler; her loving brothers, Charles and Richard Bily; and her many nephews and nieces, including Anja Eide, who was also deeply devoted to her.

As a proud and devoted Baba, Eleanor found immense joy in spending time with Caroline and Chandler. Watching them grow was one of the greatest pleasures of her life. She loved creating art with them and teaching them Rummy 500, a cherished family favorite that will always carry her memory.

Eleanor brought joy and creativity into every room she entered. She had a profound love for art and dancing. She will be fondly remembered for her wonderful knack for making up spontaneous songs, complete with her own choreographed dances, bringing endless smiles to her family.

She also treasured a close-knit circle of lifelong friends who became an extended family. Their friendships were built on loyalty, care, and an abundance of laughter. They looked out for one another, celebrated life's milestones together, and supported each other through difficult times. Some of Eleanor's happiest moments were spent with these friends, sharing stories, laughter, and the kind of companionship that only grows stronger with time.

Above all, Eleanor was a fighter. She possessed a fierce spirit and was always looking to make a difference, never hesitating to speak up for those around her and advocate for others. This passion for nurturing and protecting extended deeply into her career at Questar III BOCES, where she retired as a teaching assistant. Throughout her years in education, she made a lasting impact on countless lives, working gracefully in individual classrooms, supporting and empowering teenage mothers, and bringing her energy to the culinary program

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Eleanor's family from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Castleton Funeral Home, 59 Seaman Ave. Castleton, NY 12033. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 p.m., at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Eleanor's memory to the Valatie Rescue Squad, an organization of dedicated individuals who cared for Eleanor more than once and who constantly deliver compassionate care to all of our neighbors.