Eileen Lavery, 88, of Gladstone, Missouri, formerly of Danville, Illinois, passed away on February 5^th, 2010.  A memorial service for Eileen will be held at 10:00 a.m. on April 24^th, at Holy Family Catholic Church. 

Eileen was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on December 16^th, 1921.  She was the daughter of Edward & Sarah Elizabeth (Duncan) Cole, who were both born in Ireland.  Eileen was proud of her Canadian and Irish roots, and, during her later years, delighted in singing O Canada or Londonderry Air to anyone and everyone.

Eileen married Dan Lavery in Toronto in 1947.  In 1955, Dan received a promotion, and the family moved to Danville, Illinois.  They raised their three children in Danville, and remained there until Dan’s death in 2008, after which Eileen moved to Gladstone to be near her daughter. 

Eileen was a great mom and wonderful homemaker.  She had a creative spirit, and supported her children and grandchildren in all their chosen activities, whether conventional or unconventional.  She gave her kids confidence, and stressed to them the value of honesty and hard work.  She was a skilled seamstress, and a talented runner.  She was devoted to her husband, and missed him terribly after his passing. 

Eileen is survived by her daughter, Sue Vogl, her son, Jim, and his wife, Debbie, and her daughter, Kath Stanley, and her husband, John.  She also leaves nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. 

The family wishes to thank the staff of Woodbine Care Center and Hospice Advantage for their kindness and compassion.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Audubon Society, PO Box 2547, Springfield, IL  62708.