Eloise Scheffer Mondau

Obituary ELOISE SCHEFFER MONDAU February 18,1928 - October 24, 2014     Eloise Scheffer Mondau passed away peacefully on October 24, 2014 at her family home of fifty-two years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sybil Lowery Scheffer, and Richard Foy Scheffer as well as her older brother, Foy. She is survived by her husband, Steve Mondau and her well-loved and cherished family. Her children, Fritz (Barb), Cathy (Ronnie) Moody, Chris (Laura), Louie (Cathy) and Joe have wonderful memories of growing up under our parents' guidance and encouragement. Twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren know the warmth of "Mema's" love and gentle touch. We all will hold her in our hearts, feel her in our souls and keep her spirit alive by carrying with us the richness of being loved by her. Eloise was born February 18, 1928 in Bagdad, Florida. The family later moved to Port Saint Joe, where, as a senior in high school, she was voted cutest, most studious, best dressed and football queen, and was salutatorian of her graduating class of 1946. She met our father, Steve, at a dance in Pensacola where she was in nurses training and he was in the Navy Flight Training Program. Through wit, charm and perseverance, Dad won her heart and stole some Florida sunshine for the Pacific Northwest. Eloise and Steve were married in 1948 and moved to Seattle where they started their family. Eloise was a committed wife and mother in every way; Blue Birds, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, all the sports, all the programs, all the proms and heart to heart sessions to help us mend our broken hearts, celebrate accomplishments or learn a needed lesson. Mom always knew how to listen and what to say to reassure us or challenge our thinking, helping us find strength and confidence to pursue our goals. She enjoyed baking, sewing, gardening, reading, traveling and telling favorite stories about her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Eloise was generous with her time for others beyond the family. She was past president of the St. Leo Mothers' Club and volunteered at the Discovery Shop. After living in Tacoma for many years, Eloise and family went to Lagos, Nigeria where she organized a kindergarten program for the local community on Victoria Island. Upon her return, she worked as a substitute secretary and teacher's aide for the Tacoma School District. She also served at the desk of St. Leo Emergency Services where she coordinated a program providing knitted caps for the homeless. She was an unfailing friend to many and has received much kindness in return. The love and support from her friends and relatives during her illness has been very comforting and appreciated by her and by our family. Eloise will be missed, remembered and loved by all who knew her. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, November 1, 2014 at 11:00 am at St. Leo Catholic Church. The Rosary will be recited prior to Mass at 10:15 am also at church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Leo Food Connection or Emergency Services. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, (253) 572-6003.