Eleanor Zimmerlein, born Eleanor Olson on March 28, 1925, in rural Mendota, Illinois, was a remarkable woman who lived her life with passion, purpose, and a deep love for agriculture. Eleanor passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, in the comfort of her home where she lived for almost 75 years. Eleanor married Wilbert William Zimmerlein June 13, 1947 in Winona, MN.  Wilbert passed away in 1987.

Eleanor was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Her steadfast courage led her to take over farming operations with her son when he was just 18, a testament to her tenacity and devotion to her family and the land they cultivated. Eleanor's accomplishments extended well beyond the boundaries of her farm in La Moille, Illinois. She was a long time member of American Agri-Women, where she made significant contributions and even served as national president. Eleanor's tireless efforts in agriculture were also recognized by the Illinois Farm Bureau, where she received numerous awards, including the prestigious Eagle Award.

Despite her numerous achievements, Eleanor remained humble and dedicated to her community. Her civic spirit was evident in her service on the Lee County Board, where her voice and vision influenced positive change. Eleanor's love for agriculture was coupled with a love for travel and music.  She enjoyed the journey on her travels and loved to make pit stops on the way, especially when traveling with her daughters, to Branson, MO, one of her favorites. She journeyed extensively with her mother, creating  many memories and shared experiences. Her talent for playing the steel guitar added a unique rhythm to her life, reflecting her individuality and zest for life.

Preceded in death by her father, Oliver Olson, mother, Edith Olson, husband, Wilbert Zimmerlein; brothers: Maurice and Otis Olson; son-in-law: Norman May and great grand son, Kaedyn Bolin.

Eleanor is survived by 3 children: Bernice (Kendall) Keutzer of Arlington, IL, Rita May of Princeton, IL and Howard (Lois) Zimmerlein of Van Orin, IL; grandchildren: David (Wendy) Keutzer, Steven (Michelle) Keutzer, Matthew (Ryan) Keutzer, Sarah Keutzer, Taunia (Nathan Roos) May, Alicia (Mike) Priessner, Brendon (Vicki) May, Evan (Abbi Bugari) May, Vanessa, Alexis, Erika (Collin Cromwell) Zimmerlein and Ariel (Eric) Beauchamp; great grandchildren: Brennan, Emalyn, Lily, Caroline, Kendall, William, George, Elizabeth and Walter Keutzer, Madyson and Ryan Bolin, Lauryn, Gavin, Megan and Rachael May, Joey and Mia Bugari, Dakoda and Starlynn Cromwell and Theodore Beauchamp; 2 sisters: Doris Johnson of Baraboo, WI and Marilyn (Raleigh) Shifflette of Mendota, IL.

Public visitation on Friday, October 25, 2024, at 4:00-7:00 pm at the Horner-Merritt Funeral Home, located at 800 Monroe Street, Mendota, Illinois. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Ohio First Lutheran Church, located at 201 South Main Street, Ohio, Illinois.