October 4, 1964 – March 26, 2026
Eleanor Wild, 61, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on October 4, 1964, in Morristown, NJ, she was the daughter of Bill and Christine Wild. A proud graduate of Union High School, she always remained a Jersey girl at heart, she always found her greatest sense of peace by the ocean. Throughout her life, the salt air and the rhythm of the Atlantic remained her true north, no matter how far afield her career took her.
A remarkable and formidable force in her field, Eleanor was a builder. From Jacksonville, Florida, to Seattle, Washington, she spent her career establishing and strengthening Occupational Therapy Assistant programs across the country. After earning her master’s degree from Pacific University and her PhD from Indiana University, she became an advocate for the profession, known for her ability to navigate the complexities of clinical education with both expertise and a humble, hands on work ethic. Most recently, she served as the OTA Program Director at Lincoln Land Community College.
Throughout her recent health journey, Elle maintained an unwavering optimism that left a lasting impression on those she encountered. While her son knew her as a devoted and constant mother, those who met her during her treatments frequently remarked on her extraordinary kindness and grace. It was a sweetness that felt natural and "just like Elle" to those closest to her, but was, in truth, a rare and beautiful gift she gave to the world every day.
She is survived by her son, Erich Richel; her mother, Christine; her brothers, Chris (Susie) and Otto (Patricia “Atty”) Wild; her sister, Anna (Richard) Wild-Schaefer; and several beloved nieces and nephews.
Service Information
Family and friends are invited to a memorial gathering on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church (1725 S. Walnut St., Springfield, IL) beginning at 10:00 am, with a memorial mass to follow at 11:00 am. Fr. Jeff Grant will officiate.
Inurnment will be held at Hollywood Memorial Park in Union, NJ, at a later date, returning her to the coast she loved so dearly.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West.
