Eleonore Murphy

Mrs. Eleonore Murphy passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025.

Eleonore was born in Dickinson, ND, to Vincent Miklautsch and Susanna Miklautsch on February 21, 1923. Eleonore married Francis "Doug" Murphy on 11/9/1946 at Gesu Catholic Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They had nine children.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Doug, her parents, five sisters and one brother. She is also preceded in death by her son, Kevin Murphy, a grandson, Matthew Buettner, and a granddaughter, Michelle Whitehouse Drover.

She is survived by daughter, Sharon (Gil) Buettner, daughter-in-law, Teri Murphy, daughter, Marnie (Ernest) Owens, son, William (Sharon) Murphy, daughter, Mary (Ben) Whitehouse, son, John (Sandi) Murphy, son, Timothy (Patty) Murphy, daughter, Kierin (Ron) DeArmond, and son, Michael (Ellen) Murphy. She is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, and 5 great great grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Mom touched many peoples' lives in a very special way. She was known to say a rosary for anyone who needed prayer. Many people carry her little crocheted pocket prayers in their wallets, cars, motorcycles, pockets, and purses. Everyone was "honey", and she always was ready to lend an ear for anyone for any reason. She will be missed by so many people.

She loved travel, and always had one foot out the door, ready to go anywhere. She saw most of the world courtesy of her children, riding camels in Abu Dhabi for her 90th birthday, and spent three weeks in South Africa for her grandson's wedding. She also visited relatives in Germany many times, and enjoyed the sunshine in the Caribbean. She also traveled extensively in the States, spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her presence graced the homes of those she visited, bringing laughter and love with her.

Visitation will be held at the Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St., Wausau, WI 54401 on Saturday, December 27th from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM. There will be a rosary service at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Aspirus Hospice, Wausau, WI. We would like to give special thanks to the Hospice team and the staff at Wellington Place in Rib Mountain. Their concern and care went above and beyond.