Eleanora F. Schaefer, 82, of Hallettsville, heaven gained a Special Angel, Thursday, July 16, 2020 and the earthly world lost a wonderful soul.  She was born on February 18, 1938, to Joseph A. & Cecelia Janak Fikac, in Lavaca County, TX. She lived a wonderful and full life.  She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville.

Eleanora and Calvin were married June 15, 1955, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Witting, TX.  She and Calvin recently celebrated 65 years of marriage.

Most people probably knew Eleanora as Ellie from her days working at Wal-Mart where she worked 25 years.  She had a big personality and was very outgoing.  She was loving and kind-hearted, but also could give you a good set down if needed. She was also about as stubborn as they came; a trait that has, no doubt, been handed down.

The most important part of her life was her family. She loved having all the family come together whether it was a holiday, a simple barbecue, or meeting up for Saturday morning coffee.  Some favorite memories were when family got together to make homemade ice cream in the summer or apple strudels in the fall. She made the best cinnamon rolls, chicken salad and strudels.

Eleanora and Calvin enjoyed taking trips to Louisiana and occasionally Las Vegas to play the slot machines.  She wasn't one to brag, but more often than not, was lucky.  She also loved her Polka music and enjoyed watching Molly B. She also kept current on her daytime soap operas.  Her home was filled with angels, which she enjoyed collecting.

Eleanora leaves behind many loved ones with cherished memories and stories to tell. While there has been laughter, love, and tears, she lived a long life filled with hope, strength, and devotion.  She has made this world a brighter and better place and will be greatly missed. Her spirit will remain with those lives she has touched whether family or friend.

Eleanora is survived by:  her husband Calvin; 2 sons, Roy Schaefer (Jean), and Douglas Schaefer (Sharon); daughter Debbie Smith (friend John Leonard); daughter-in-law Melinda Schaefer Grahmann; brother Paul Fikac; 3 sisters, Mary Deloach, Rita Janak and Annie Wagner; 7 grandchildren, Clinton Janssen, Tracey Janssen (Melanie), Megan Ripley (Jacob), Jacob Schaefer (Ashley), Jonathan Schaefer (Michelle), Cory Schaefer (Gwen), Aaron Schaefer (Sidney); and 12 great grandchildren, Bentley Janssen, Liesel Ripley, Rory Ripley, Taylor Schaefer, Addison Schaefer, Brooklyn Schaefer, Aubrianah Schaefer, Timberley Schaefer, Jackson Holt, Caitlynn Holt, Ashtyn Schaefer and Grayson Schaefer.

Eleanora was preceded in death by: her son Timothy Wayne Schaefer; 5 brothers, Leonard, Frank, August, Joseph and Anthony Fikac; and sister Sidonia Klekar

The family wants to thank everyone that has kept the family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.  Special thanks to Dr. Kurtis Kruger and Dr. James Knight and staff for their compassion and care of our dear mother.

Funeral Mass Service (All attendees must wear masks): 10 am, Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville; with Rosary starting at 9:30 am; and Visitation stating at 9 am. Pallbearers: Clinton Janssen, Tracey Janssen, Jonathan Schaefer, Cory Schaefer, Jacob Schaefer, Aaron Schaefer, Jacob Ripley, Tommy Kainer and Megan Ripley Officiant: Rev Gary Janak. Memorials: Donor's Choice. Burial: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.