Eleanor Magdalene Kruggel

In Loving Memory of Eleanor Magdalene (McManus) Kruggel.

Eleanor Kruggel passed peacefully at the age of 89, on October 17, 2026. Eleanor was born on September 27, 1937, in Clarksdale, MO, the daughter of RL and Therese McManus.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Eleanor was a strong and resilient woman who faced life’s challenges with determination. She fought and defeated cancer not once, but twice. This was a testament to the incredible strength and perseverance that carried her throughout her life.

Her faith was an important part of who she was, and she was a devoted member of the Mater Dei Assumption and Holy Name Catholic Churches for many years. She also found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including bowling, puzzles, sewing, and playing cards with family and friends. Eleanor was a great cook and baker, providing delicious meals and sweets for her family. Long before these hobbies, she even played basketball during her school years, which caught the eye of young Sherman. They ended up marrying on September 3, 1955, in Hurlinger, MO. Together, they shared 41 years of marriage before Sherman’s passing on January 28, 1997.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her beloved husband and two of her sons, Mikel and Joseph, as well as five siblings. She leaves behind two sons, Patrick of Topeka, KS, and Steve (Tammy) of O’Fallon, MO; as well as a daughter-in-law, Patti Brennan (Kent). She also leaves behind 5 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and many other family members and loved ones who will cherish her memory.

She will lie in state with visitation being held from 9-10:30 A.M., with a rosary being prayed at 10:30 A.M., at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 A.M., at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Mt. Calvary Cemetery-Topeka.

Memorial contributions can be made in Eleanor’s memory to Mater Dei Parish, 911 SW Clay St., Topeka, KS 66606. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

To honor Celia’s memory, please share your stories, photos, and favorite moments on her memorial page at brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.