Eleanor V. Kanis, resident of Austin, TX since 1991, passed away on February 13, 2012 as the result of complications following a fall that broke her right hip, at the age of 89. She was born December 11, 1922 in Erie, Penna., the second daughter of James Van Aken and Ella Beck Van Aken.
Eleanor was an elementary school librarian for 19 years in the North East School District in North East, PA, retiring in 1985. She also had a Masters degree in English from Edinboro University.
Her retirement allowed her time for travel throughout the US, Canada, Britain and Australia.
Upon her move to Austin, she became an active member in her local AARP chapter, serving as treasurer and she was also involved in providing information on health care to the general public at health fair events around central Texas. Eleanor also was a volunteer for 16 years with Recording for the Blind and Dyslectic in Austin as part of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program of Travis County. She volunteered at the Talking Books Program within the Texas State Library. Eleanor was a member of the South Central Llama Assoc. She enjoyed years of attending llama shows and events around the state of Texas and helped educate the public on the care and well being of llamas.
Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Karen Conyngham and son-in-law Jim Conyngham of Austin; also her niece Crystal Birkmire of McKean, PA and her nephew Keith Vogel of Erie, PA. Her sister, Jane Van Aken Vogel and her parents preceded her in death.
Eleanor's family wishes to thank Hospice Austin and the wonderful staff at Christopher House for making her final weeks comfortable.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any of the following, or the charity of one's choice. SCLA General Fund, PO Box 163654 Austin, TX 78716, KMFA, 3100 N. Lamar Blvd. Ste. 100, Austin, TX 78705, Hospice Austin, 4107 Spicewood Springs Road Suite 100, Austin, TX 78759