Elyse C. Kuchenthal

Elyse C. Kuchenthal, 78, of Galesburg, died on Wednesday, June 20, 2018, 6:24 AM, at home. Elyse was born on November 19, 1940 in Waltham, Ma. She was the daughter of Otto and Doris (Fiske) Behnke. She married Bill Kuchenthal on April 13, 1968 in Tampa, Fl. He survives at home. Elyse is also survived by two sons, Todd (Alice) Kuchenthal of San Antonio, Tx and Craig (Robyn) Kuchenthal of New Lenox, IL; brother, Carl (Bonnie) Behnke of New Port Richie, Fl; sister-in-law, Linda Kuchenthal of Bonner Springs, Ks; two grandchildren, Eric and Natalie; one niece, one nephew, four great-nieces, one step-niece and one step-nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents. Elyse received her Bachelor’s degree at the University of Tampa and her Master’s at Western Illinois University. She taught elementary aged children for 28 years in Florida, Missouri and Illinois. She retired from King Elementary School in 2008. Elyse enjoyed her work with her elementary students. She was a member of the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority, Galesburg Education Association, and the Presbyterian Church of Galesburg. In her spare time, Elyse enjoyed doing needlework. She had a heart of gold and will be greatly missed.  Per Elyse’s wishes cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life is planned on Saturday, June 30, 2018 from 11 AM to 2 PM at the Thomas Legacy Center, Galesburg. A private family burial of cremated remains will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted with Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorials may be donated to Hospice Compassus. Or to Guardian Angel Basset Rescue.