Eileen Bantel Memoriam Eileen Marie (Meeker) Bantel, known affectionately as G’Ma (Aunt) Leenie, peacefully passed away on June 8, 2024, in Charlottesville, Virginia, at the age of 78, surrounded by her family. Born on March 7, 1946, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Eileen was a beacon of love, support, and community throughout her life. A true feminist and advocate for women’s rights, Eileen carried a strong moral compass and a passionate disposition that influenced everyone she met.
While vocal about her beliefs, she also strived to listen and understand each and every person who entered her life. Eileen’s love for travel took her to many beautiful places, including memorable trips to Ireland, Bermuda, Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand. Eileen was also deeply involved in public service, often volunteering her time and skills to local community, sport, and church organizations.
She was active with Habitat for Humanity and was a member of the P.E.O.
(Philanthropic Educational Organization) Sorority, an organization where women motivate, educate and celebrate women. An avid sewer and quilter, Eileen’s handmade treasures were a delight to receive and are now precious memories. She also enjoyed playing tennis, bridge, and spending time with her granddaughters, Kelsey and Meghan.
Eileen’s warmth and outgoing personality made everyone around her feel special and loved. She had a unique ability to connect with people, making lasting impressions that often turned into lifelong friendships. Eileen’s sweet tooth was legendary among those who knew her well, and the term “Chocoholic” may have originated with her.
With her work ethic and determination, Eileen started as an administrative assistant at the National Health Lawyers Association but retired as the Vice President in the department where she first began. Throughout her various careers, Eileen was most proud of the work she did helping sexual assault victims with the Rape Crisis Center in Rochester, NY. This work took her to prisons to work with sexual assault perpetrators as well as counseling victims and families.
Eileen is survived by her loving husband of over 55 years, Tom Bantel; son, Marc Bantel (Sharon); granddaughters, Kelsey and Meghan Bantel; sister, Virginia Munkelwitz; brother, Paul Meeker; sister, Debi (Mike) Pallien; sister-in-law Ann (Roger) Partridge; and five nephews and one niece. She was preceded in death by her parents, Vivian and Frank Meeker. A service to celebrate Eileen’s life will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, 11 am at St.
John’s Episcopal Church in West Point, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Eileen’s memory to Planned Parenthood or The Virginia Chapter of the P.E.
O. Sisterhood. These contributions honor Eileen’s lifelong dedication to the empowerment of women and her commitment to community service.
Plant a Living Memorial In memory of Eileen.
