Eleanor Ruth Mewaldt was born August 16, 1927, to Simon and Gertrude (Bruggers) Dykema in Raymond, Minnesota. She attended Wheaton College, graduating with a teaching degree. Following graduation, Eleanor moved to Watertown, Minnesota to teach junior high social studies. It was in Watertown that she met Richard Mewaldt, the high school principal.They were married March 22, 1951.  

After her marriage Eleanor left full time teaching, but continued frequent substitute teaching and tutoring. She was active in her children’s classrooms, and as a grandmother seldom missed a school event. An excellent seamstress, she made almost all her children’s clothes. An active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, she taught confirmation and served on the church council.

When Richard passed away in 1981, Eleanor returned to work. She chose not to return to teaching, but instead took a job with Pillsbury in Minneapolis. While it was unusual to make such a change in her fifties, she enjoyed working alongside young adults who were just beginning their careers. 

After retiring from Pillsbury, Eleanor kept busy with family and friends. She was an avid Twins fan and loved to travel. In addition to visits to Hawaii and Alaska, she made several trips to Europe. When asked which was her favorite trip, she said that while she enjoyed them all, she especially enjoyed her trip to Spain.

In 2015 Eleanor moved to Maple Grove to be nearer to her family. An outgoing person, she found many good friends (and bridge partners) at Silvercreek.  

Eleanor was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She always put her family first. Independent and hardworking, she never let obstacles stop her. She found creative workarounds for almost any challenge.  

Eleanor is survived by her brother, Roger; daughters, Barbara, Beth (Larry) and Jennifer; grandchildren, William and Katherine (Ryan); great grandson, Mason, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by husband, Richard, and brother, Roland.

Eleanor's memorial service will be held 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at SilverCreek on Main, 8200 N Main Street, Maple Grove, Minnesota.

Memorials preferred to Trinity Lutheran Church (https://secure.myvanco.com/L-YZJA/campaign/C-11BF9), or Watertown-Mayer Education Foundation (https://www.wm.k12.mn.us/community/wmef/academic-scholarships)