Obituary of Eleanor Riddell

SARATOGA SPRINGS - Eleanor H. Riddell of Woodlawn Commons, Saratoga Springs, NY passed away peacefully at Wesley Health Care Center on Monday, January 7, 2013 surrounded by loving family members. Eleanor was born on September 18, 1911 in Greenwich, NY, the daughter of the late Andrew and Ella (Smith) Riddell. She was employed by the Aetna Life Insurance Company for 32 years and later worked for the NYS Thruway for 7 years, retiring in 1973. Eleanor was the oldest living member of the First United Methodist Church of Delmar. She was an avid gardener and also enjoyed traveling. Eleanor was predeceased by her beloved sister, Florence S. Riddell. She is survived by her brother Grant Van Patten and his wife, Martha of Saratoga Springs. Eleanor is also survived by two nephews, James Van Patten of San Francisco, CA and Peter Van Patten of Roy, Utah and their families. Also surviving are two nieces, Christine Van Patten of Clifton Park and Julianne O'Toole of Greenfield Center and her two children. Several cousins and their families also survive. Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours. Interment will be in Bethlehem Cemetery, Delmar. A memorial service in celebration of her life will be held at Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at 1 pm. Donations in her memory may be made to the Saratoga Hospital Community Health Resource Center, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.