of Little Rock, AR
March 13, 1938 - February 6, 2025
Eleanore F. Lipke passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025 in Little Rock, AR. Born on March 13, 1938 in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up in Hoboken, NJ and later raised her family in Monroe Township, NJ before moving to Little Rock in 1983.
She worked for the Central Arkansas Library System for 26 years, retiring in 2014 at the age of 76. She loved her job, particularly in the children's department and made many wonderful friends there.
Eleanore was active, funny, sometimes opinionated, but in most things had a very open mind, willing to listen. She tried to help everyone and was friendly to all she met. She cherished every moment with her family and was passionately proud of their accomplishments, the day before her passing, she was seen making the nurses laugh, the PT smile and keeping everyone entertained. She reminded us all that life is a gift, nothing is guaranteed and to just roll with the punches. Her early participation in Al-Anon over 50 years ago guided her outlook and philosophy for the rest of her life one day at a time, easy does it, let go and let God. In that group, she made many lifelong friends and sponsored many, many women, hopefully, changing their lives as well.
She loved music, flowers, the sun on her face and basically a car ride to just about anywhere.
Eleanore was predeceased by her husband, Charles F. Lipke. She is survived by her children, Carla Nale (Kurt) of Monroe Township, NJ, Charles R. of Casa Grande, AZ and David (Robin) of Cabot, AR; her grandchildren, Kurt (Jenna) Nale, Katie Nale (Matt Kroll), Jacob (Samantha) Nale, Sarah Nale, Brian (Bridget) Nale, Bailey Stevens (Devin Files) and Chad Stevens and 10 great-grandchildren; her brothers, Billy (Donna) Lackner and Charles (Kathy) Lackner and her sister, Marie Lackner.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 16th at Pinnacle Church of Christ, 1 Shackleford Dr., Little Rock, AR. Service begins at 2pm with a light reception to follow. Cremation and burial will be private.
Memorial donations may be made to:
Humane Society of Pulaski County - https://warmhearts.org
Central Arkansas Library System - https://cals.org
I'm so very sorry Aunt Ellinore passed away so suddenly, yes she was 86, and lived a long happy life, but still it was too soon! I loved her funny quips, her zest for life, her realism, and her genuineness. She really cared about her loved ones. She was a straight shooter, loved her kids & grandkids, and was so proud of their accomplishments! So glad i got to see you in May, I'll miss you and pray I can live my life half as a good caring person as you were. With love and sincerest condolences to all, Patti
Ellie, I miss you so much! I always admired your upbeat attitude. If you ever had a bad day, it did not show. Your smile was infectious. Even when I had bad days, I knew I could call you, reason things out, and you would help me turn my frown upside down! You hugged me every time you saw me which made me feel so special. You always knew when I needed a boost and were generous with your support and compliments. I plan to keep sharing all my special milestone with you, like the one I reached today and know you are cheering me on from the angel section! Till we meet again my friend! I love you!
Almost 30 years ago, when I walked into a meeting I still go to every Friday, Ellie was there. I’ve seen her weekly, except for special times when she was traveling, like to Disney (a favorite of hers!) In more recent years, we saw each other more often for trips to the grocery store or, occasionally a medical appointment.
Ellie had a joy for life that spread to others. She loved her family, and was so proud of them all.
May her memory be a blessing. She has certainly been a blessing to me.
I have such warm memories of Ellie, including lots of laughs and plenty of wisdom.
Was very impressed by her upbeat, courageous outlook on life. She imparted this to everyone around her. I knew her for the last 2 years, a time when I really needed such friendship and encouragement. I will greatly miss her and remember her always. Julia R. Collins
A good neighbor and friend for years, thank you, Ellie!
Ellie, you certainly changed my life for the better, and I will always love and remember you for that. Thank you for all the reminders to keep it simple, and for all the times you told us that your friend, God, has it all under control followed by a rhetorical, “So whaddaya got to be worried about!” I will miss your Jersey accent and our chats when I had the honor of doing “pick up and delivery” (your phrasing) to our meetings. Friday nights will not be the same and we already immensely miss your physical presence there. You will always be in our hearts.
So sorry for your loss.
There is no one like Ellie. We worked together at CALS the last several years before she retired. I will never forget her kindness to my son who was young at the time. Anytime he came to visit you would find him with a chair pulled up to the desk right next to Ellie and the two of them in deep conversation. Ellie taught me a lot, guided me through learning the ropes, and always had a kind and funny word for me. She will be missed by many. May her memory forever be a blessing to her children.
Ellie was an original in the best possible way-that’s for sure. I worked with her at CALS up to her retirement. She once told me I was “no trouble at all” which felt like a high compliment. Her smile was infectious and she loved the kids. She was a very special lady.
She will be very missed. No more phone calls that start. "are you hungry yet "
When I sought recovery over 35 years ago, Ellie was sitting in that room that night and every week after that (except for trips back to New Jersey). Her passing leaves a large hole in my heart, but I have years of fond memories to help fill it.