Eleanor Peterson Nolli

She was born to John Paul Richards and Helen Elizabeth Richards on October 30, 1922 in Highland Park, Michigan.

Eleanor lived a rich and varied life. During World War II, she worked in the Foreign Affairs Department of the Burroughs Corporation and assiduously volunteered for the Detroit, Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross. She also spent many memorable weekends at the Richards’ family cottage at Cliffside Beach, Kingsville, Ontario.

In 1946, she married Samuel H. Peterson, a veteran of the Army Air Forces, in Seattle, Washington. After the birth of their only child, Charlene, the couple relocated to Detroit, Michigan.

Through the years, Eleanor was a dedicated Girl Scout leader, hospital volunteer and President of her Friendly Circle (St. Paul Methodist church).

Together with her second husband, John Nolli, she owned and operated several restaurants in Michigan. Her restaurant career culminated in acquiring a beautiful, circa 1773 inn and restaurant in Torrington, Connecticut. After selling this historic property, Eleanor moved to South Portland, Maine to be near her family.

During her middle and late years, she traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Europe and the Caribbean, and maintained a vast network of friends.

Eleanor’s unselfishness helped her gracefully care for her mother during a long illness, as well as for many aunts and uncles. And, she became a “second mother” to many of Charlene’s friends, too.

She is survived by her daughter, Charlene Gordon, son-in-law Bruce, beloved grandson Craig, grand daughter-in-law Allison, and much adored great grandson Gavin.

She also leaves behind cousins Robert Richards of Calumet, Michigan and James Richards of Venice, Florida; a nephew Dean Trenery and niece Susan Trenery, both of Seattle, Washington.

Internment will take place at Black Point Cemetery, Scarborough, Maine, next to her first husband, Samuel Peterson.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Kansas City Hospice Care.