Julia Eleanor “Ellie” Wedemeier

Julia Eleanor "Ellie" Wedemeier, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away at home on March 2, 2012, surrounded by her family and beloved dog, "Gus".

Ellie lived in Johnson County for over 30 years, but was born July 27, 1936, in Portland, Indiana, and raised her family in Des Moines, Iowa. She loved travel, music and entertaining. An avid bridge player, she was fortunate to find both a bridge partner and dancing partner later in life in her "love", Robert Hinz.

She was preceded in death by husband, Steven Wedemeier, and is survived by her daughters: Lorri and husband Jim Stanislav of Shawnee, Kansas, and Stephanie Uzundede and Kevin Hosey of Belton, Missouri; grandchildren, Meghan, Bailey, Steven, Analee, Madison and Julia; great-grandchild Stephen; brother, Dr. William Starbuck and wife Joan of Oregon; aunt, Elizabeth Starbuck of Indiana; and loving caregivers Kathie Lewis and Linda Baska.

The family would like to thank those who helped Ellie as a stroke survivor: Dr. Gary Berger, Dr. Harish Ponnuru, Menorah Medical Center staff, Rehabilitation Institute of KC, Blessed Trinity Home Health, Hospice Advantage, and ASF.

A family graveside service is scheduled this spring in Iowa.

Memorial contribution may be made to the American Stroke Foundation, 5960 Dearborn Street, Mission, Kansas 66202.