Eleanor Mitchell
We were all saddened to hear of the passing of Eleanor Mitchell on 4 February 2011 at the age of 79, just 2 weeks before her 80th birthday. Eleanor, along with Dennis were stalwarts and founding members of the South Pacific Packard Club, and always welcomed people into their home at Taradale, Napier. Many Packard club meetings were held there and Eleanor always had a cup of tea ready. Over recent years Eleanor suffered ill-health, however, she always had a smile and did not complain. Over this time, Dennis was always at her side, at home or in hospital, and still managed to find time to help people with their Packards. A highlight for Packard members was Eleanor’s determination to take part in the 2010 South Pacific Packards, Wild West Wander rally down the West Coast of the South Island. Dennis made a special cradle to fit to the towbar of their 1939 Packard convertible coupe to carry Eleanor’s wheelchair, and they took part in all of the travelling, sightseeing and fellowship during the rally. Eleanor had her usual smile and enjoyed herself. Eleanor and Dennis received the Award for Outstanding Commitment to the Rally. Below are some notes on Eleanor’s life provided by Dennis.
1. Eleanor was born in a tent in the Hastings Hospital grounds in the aftermath of the earthquake
2. Lived and worked all her life in Hastings / Napier area.
3. I met her at morning tea while carrying out a C.N.G. contract at a service station where she did the accounts, but only really to chat at morning tea as we always did.
4. Was later asked by a friend to escort this lady to a 21st party and in doing realised who it was.
5. As she was a widow (never marry a divorcee) things went on from there and we married on the 11th January 1986. Sold each of our homes and moved into the present house in April 1987.
6. Brought the 1929 Buick and between us finished that in 1988.
7. Acquired the 39 Packard 1991 and with her support finished that in 1992 for the Palmerston North International Rally. It was at this rally that the suggestion was made to form a Packard club in NZ and Robin Strawn with a bit of help organised the 1993 meeting in Turangi where the club charter was presented By George Hamlin.
8. News letters followed but slowly diminished until by 1996 there were none and no subs had been collected. At a get together at the Christchurch Rally it became a question whether to carry on or finish the club. I undertook to issue a 16 page newsletter 6 times a year and Eleanor agreed to become Secretary/ treasurer which she did until 2002.
9. She always enjoyed all the VCC and Packard club outings and later when she found difficulty in walking always enjoyed sitting in the car and chatting to all who came past.
She was absolutely determined to go on the Wild West Wander which she really enjoyed and was so grateful for the help and companionship of everyone there. On returning she told me she would not be going on the next one.
She was always a wonderful support in all things and will be missed by myself and many people from all walks of life.
Dennis Mitchell
Eleanor and Denis receiving the award for Outstanding Commitment to the Rally at the 2010 South Pacific Packard's Wild West Wander rally down the West Coast of the South Island.
