Obituary

Eleanor “Ellie” Marie Blenz
March 20, 1929 to August 5, 2024

“Eleanora” Marie Daly was born in Chicago on March 20, 1929. She began her eternal life on August 5, 2024.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elizabeth (Sullivan) Daly and Walter Daly; her beloved husband Ludwig “Marty” Blenz; sisters Elizabeth and Joanne; and brothers Walter and Gerald.

She is survived by her children Elizabeth Blenz-Clucas (Richard Clucas), Martin Blenz, Paul Blenz (Dolores), and five grandchildren: Nathaniel and Alexander Clucas, and Paul, Caitlin, and Marissa Blenz. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Eleanor married Ludwig on April 6, 1956 in Chicago. They lived in Pirmasens, Germany for one year and then resided in Oak Lawn, IL. In 1974, they moved the family to Irvine.

Together for 49 years, they enjoyed traveling in Europe, throughout the United States, and on cruises.

Eleanor graduated from Jones Commercial High School in Chicago, where she honed her business skills. She worked for the telephone company for several years. After moving to California she earned an AA degree from Saddleback College in Irvine. She retired from work for the State of California and then volunteered at Hoag Hospital in Irvine.

Eleanor taught religious education classes at St. Catherine’s Catholic Parish in Oak Lawn and St. John Neumann Catholic Church in California. She was a supporting member of St. John Neumann since the parish’s inception as well as a member-volunteer of Catholic Charities of Orange County Auxiliary III.

Services will be held at St. John Neumann Catholic Church (5101 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA)  on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. A Rosary will be read at 10 am before a funeral mass at 10:30 am. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Orange, CA.

Arrangements are by O’Connor Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, or another charity of choice, would be appreciated.