Eleanor Lorraine Radimiri

Eleanor Lorraine Radimiri passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, at the age of 90. She was the beloved wife of Professor Guido Radimiri, with whom she shared 46 years of marriage. A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Eleanor’s life was marked by love, creativity, faith, and a deep commitment to those around her.

Born in 1935 in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood to Gustav and Paula Warber, Eleanor was raised in a close-knit German-American community and baptized at Zoar Lutheran Church in Elmwood Park, IL. Her musical talent was evident early on, and by age 14, she had already won a citywide vocal competition. A gifted soprano, she trained at the Chicago Conservatory of Music and went on to perform lead roles in operas across the country, as well as at numerous German cultural events—including one occasion for relatives of the President of the United States.

Eleanor met Guido at an Oktoberfest celebration near Chicago. Their relationship grew through letter writing and shared appreciation for music and culture, eventually leading to a marriage that spanned decades and took them throughout the United States, Europe and the Holy Land.

In addition to her musical accomplishments, Eleanor built a successful career as a newspaper advertising executive in Chicago. She was a familiar and respected figure in the Belmont and Central neighborhood and remained active in church and social life. After retiring, she joined Guido in Graz, Austria, where she began a new chapter—where among other things, she began teaching English to kindergarteners, who affectionately called her “Miss Ellie.”

In 1992, Eleanor and Guido moved to San Diego, California, where they embraced the relaxed lifestyle and sunshine. They became regulars at the Kaiserhof German Restaurant, a familiar place where they were warmly welcomed and enjoyed staying connected to their roots. They cherished regular visits from friends and family members from all over the world.

Eleanor is survived by her children: Richard (Melinda) Sloan of Evansville, IN; Kathryn (Hugh) Morris of Carlsbad, CA; and Steven (Susan) Sloan of Elk Grove Village, IL. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Brooke (Troy) Hall, David Morris, Ashley (Ryley) Westman, Rachael (Kevin) Miller, Marjorie (Steve) Szumylo, Abbey Sloan, Christopher Sloan, Benjamin Sloan, Alec Sloan, and Caroline Sloan. She also cherished her great-grandchildren: Nellie, Reese, Cal, Wilder, Scout, and Willie Jack. In addition, she is survived by sister-in-law Argia Radimiri, niece Tiziana (Mauro) Barbetti, grand-nephew Lorenzo, and grand-niece Benedetta, as well as nephews David, Ron, and Bob Cravens. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Bernice Warber and Ruth (Joseph) Cravens.

Of all her accomplishments, Eleanor found the most joy in her family. She never missed a birthday and made each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren feel truly seen and loved. Her warmth, kindness, and steady support left a lasting impact on everyone around her.

Eleanor will be remembered for her generosity, grace, and quiet strength. Her memory lives on in the stories shared, the music remembered, and the love she gave so freely. She is reunited now with her beloved Guido, and while she will be deeply missed, her legacy remains a guiding light for her family and all who knew her.