Eunice Juanita Woelfle

Born October 29, 1948 in Pekin, she was the daughter of Arthur Henry and Hilma (Hild) Woelfle. Her parents and one brother, Dean Arthur Woelfle, preceded her in death.

Surviving are her sister-in-law and longtime caregiver, Martha Ann “Marti” Woelfle of Pekin; two nieces, Lynette (Joel) Steger of Pekin and Lara (Nathan) Kline of Washington, D.C.; one nephew, Brian Woelfle of Peoria and five grand nieces and nephews, 1st Lt. Benjamin (2nd Lt. Elizabeth) Steger, Noah Steger, Gabriel Kline, London Woelfle and Jacob Kline. She also is survived by several cousins, including Dr. William (Anita) Allaben of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Milton (LuAnn) Gray of Popular Grove, Illinois.

Eunice cherished her memories of growing up in Pekin playing with her brother and cousins, going to ballgames at Pekin High School with her friend, Rosie, traveling with family, and each summer, visiting a family farm in Dixon and riding on the tractors. For several years, she volunteered as an assistant at Lincoln School in Peoria under the direction of Principal Dickson Young.

Eunice was a 35-year resident of Saxony Court Senior Living (formerly Riverview), which initially was also home to her mother, aunt and uncle, and other family members. Eunice loved being involved with the residents and always took great joy in participating in the field trips, boat rides, and all of the activities. When she was able, she loved helping others during these outings. From the beginning, she was known for her love of dogs and became known as the official “dog walker.” When a resident with a dog required 24-hour care, Eunice volunteered to move to the first floor to care for her favorite furry friend, Gromit (Grummy) so she could more easily take him outside. She enjoyed playing Bingo, completing jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles on paper and the computer, reading, and was very fond of art activities.

Eunice was of the Lutheran faith, and as a resident, participated in the worship services, Bible studies, and fellowship opportunities offered by many congregations. In her later years, she appreciated the prayers and support of The Congregational UCC of Pekin.

A “Celebration of Life” will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at Saxony Court Senior Living, 500 Centennial Drive in East Peoria. The Reverend Judy Steger Kennedy will officiate at both services. In the spring, a graveside service will be held at Lakeside Cemetery in Pekin. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charities of one’s choice, and because she loved animals, the Tazewell Animal Protective Society, 100 Taps Lane, Pekin, IL 61554.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com