Obituary of Eleanor C. Lampe

Eleanor C. Lampe, of State College, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, August 15, 2018, at the age of 91. Born Eleanor Frances Coffin on July 2, 1927 in Chicago, IL, she was the daughter of Walter K. and Katherine (Logan) Coffin. Ellie was a graduate of the Amityville, NY High School, and took business classes at the Pace Institute in New York City. She worked at Burlington Mills and The Vanderbilt Hotel in New York City.

It was in Amityville that she would meet Frederick Walter Lampe, whom she married on March 26, 1949. They lived in Michigan, New York, and Texas before moving to Pennsylvania in 1960 when Fred was hired as a chemistry professor for the Pennsylvania State University. A love of travel led them on adventures around the world, often with kids in tow. Their happy marriage lasted more than 50 years, until Fred’s unexpected death in 2000. Even after his passing, Ellie continued to travel to visit her children, grandchildren, and friends across the globe.

Ellie loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild fiercely and she delighted in her time with them. She was a soft touch for any animal, and even visiting pets quickly learned that she was always reliable for a treat. An avid reader, Ellie also enjoyed flower arranging, jewelry making, and cooking. She appreciated beautiful fashion and jewelry, and always dressed with impeccable style. Ellie loved gourmet meals, chili dogs, strong coffee, and potent mimosas.

In addition to her husband Fred, Ellie was predeceased by sister Joan Lindquist, and brothers Edward Coffin and Walter Coffin. She is survived by her five children: Joan Wakeling and her husband Vic, of Woodstock, GA; Kathy Wakeling and her husband Greg, of Louisville, KY; Erik Lampe and his wife Carolyn, of Holly Ridge, NC; Beth Lampe, of State College, PA; and Kristina Shanton and her husband Erik, of Ithaca, NY; beloved foster daughter Brigitte Guehr, of Santa Barbara, CA; eight grandchildren: Erin Wakeling, Heather Lampe, Jon Lampe and his wife Brittany, Kate Henry and her husband Rob, Colin Wakeling, Ellie Shanton, Will Shanton, and Charlie Shanton; one great-grandchild: Emily Lampe; and many nieces and nephews.

Ellie’s family is eternally grateful to her primary home caregiver, Michelle, who took such loving care of her over the past eight months. Additionally, we thank the staff at Brightstar Care, as well as the nurses and staff at Centre Crossings Hospice, for their attention and compassion during her illness.

Many times, Ellie mentioned that, instead of a mournful ceremony, she would like people to celebrate her life with a drink and fond memories of her. In honor of her, please have a glass of champagne and remember her vitality, strength, and humor. Those who wish may make a donation in her name to Centre County Paws, 1401 Trout Rd, State College, PA, 16801.

Friends will be received from 12:30pm-2:00pm on Sunday, August 19, 2018, at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College, PA, 16801. Burial will be private. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.