Birth date: Nov 23, 1931 Death date: Nov 10, 2021
Edna C. Whener (nee Eckstein) passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, with her family at her side. Born in Philadelphia to Harold S. and Caroline M. Eckstein, Edna was 89 years old. Beloved wife of 69 years Read Obituary
Aloha;
I remember my mother, Edna C. Whener as I was growing up, she was a truly loving and caring mother, but when called for she was no nonsense like her mother. Short in stature but large in character. Always there when she was needed, and sometimes just because. Willing to take the extra steps and help with whatever she could.
She and my father sacrificed a great deal to provide my sister, my brother and myself with the best home possible. We all got pretty much what we wanted and definitely everything that we needed.
There were whole summers spent at the shore in Brigantine at the home of my mothers aunt and uncle.
Holidays were always family affairs with my mother, and father, working diligently in the kitchen to provide a Thanksgiving, Christmas or some other special day meal. Most times with aunts, uncles, and other relatives joining us. In fact, while we were visiting just a couple of years ago, during Easter Sunday, my brother, sister, and almost all of their families showed up at my parents home creating a mini family reunion.
I also recall every Sunday, as we were growing up, going to Sunday School and church. Contributing to our Christian upbringing. Lessons learned that have served well throughout life.
There were fun times with neighborhood friends at our house too, as we all used to gather in front of the television on weekday afternoons to watch Dark Shadows. It was never a bother for my mother to host whoever we brought to our home.
Around 30 years ago, Theresa and I got the once in a lifetime opportunity to move to Hawaii. Although we would be far from family we thought it would be a beautiful place to start our own little family and raise our children. We traveled back to visit for several years usually around Christmas. My mother and father discovered Hawaii when they came to visit, and I believe, fell in love with the islands also. They made the trip annually for many, many years. Although we couldn't return to visit as often as we would have liked, we talked by telephone at least once a week. I will miss those conversations very much.
It is very hard to write down a lifetime of memories but I am thankful for having the best mother (and father) possible and being able to enjoy all the good times that we had.
I already miss my mother and my father who have both left within such short period of time. I wish it had been possible to have been there more as their health declined. But I am grateful that I am able to remember them in a healthier state.
In closing I would like to thank the Lord God for giving me the best mother and father, the best mother-in-law and father-in-law for my wife, and the best grammy and grand dad for both my children.
Aloha 'oe a hui hou kakou, makuahine and makuakane!* Until we meet again, mother and father!
Your loving son, Ray
*Pronunciation: A-LO-HA OI A HU-EE HOE KA-KO MA-KUA-HE-NAY and MA-KUA-KA-NAY
My first memory of Edna was a family get together before Ray and Theresa’s wedding. She was so full of love that it showed in everything she did. I know she loved going to Hawaii to visit and spend time with Ray, Theresa, Shannon and RJ. My condolences to Ray, Theresa and the rest of the family. She is gone but the memories of her spirit and love will always be with you.
Maryanne
