Eleanor Jean Mears Kalin, an extraordinarily creative homemaker and community member, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, in Shawnee, Kansas, of complications of metastatic breast cancer. Born on June 9, 1938, in DeKalb, Missouri, she lived a life full of love, service, and dedication to her family and friends, reaching the age of 87.
Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents, Luther Reynolds "Dick" Mears and Thelma Maxine Linville Mears, as well as her sisters, Donna June Mears Callaway and Nancy Ellen Mears Jobes, and her nephew, Harold Cecil Callaway II. Her memory will be cherished by her surviving husband, Thomas Edward Kalin, to whom she was a devoted wife. They were married nearly 70 years ago, on September 2, 1956. The achievements of her children, Carol R. Kalin, Cindi Kalin Johnson, and Jeffrey Thomas Kalin, reflect her strong engagement as a mother. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Benjamin Kalin Johnson, Nicholas Kalin Johnson, and Audrey Kalin Johnson. Eleanor is also survived by her brother, Kenneth Richard "Pete" Mears.
A woman of faith and community, Eleanor was an active member of Countryside Christian Church, where she and her husband worshipped when they first moved to Shawnee Mission, Kansas in 1957. The relationships they formed with the "old bunch" of friends made at that church continue to this day. She also enjoyed the companionship found in the Black & Veatch Women's Book Club, where she shared her love for literature and fellowship.
Eleanor's life was marked by her passions for sewing, cooking, and decorating. These interests not only enriched her life but also brought joy to those around her, especially her family, who benefited from her warm hospitality and creative talents. She was a superb hostess, at home in Kansas City and in the barn at Faucett, Missouri as well as in the international context of Hong Kong, where she supported her husband in his role as President of Black & Veatch Power Asia.
Services to honor Eleanor’s life held at Countryside Christian Church on Thursday, May 14, 2026, where the visitation will be held from 10:00 to 10:30am, and the main service will begin at 10:30am. Following the service, friends and family are also invited to join in a reception at Faucett Christian Church, 715 SE 3rd St, Faucett, MO, United States, 64448, to celebrate Eleanor's life and legacy. A private family graveside service will take place at Faucett Cemetery.
In remembrance of Eleanor Jean Mears Kalin, let us hold dear the values she cherished and the love she offered. She will be deeply missed and well remembered by all who knew her.
