Obituary of Eleanor Katcoff

Eleanor Katcoff, co-owner of H.P. Smith Monuments in Stoneham entered into rest after a lengthy illness on Thursday morning, June 29, 2017. She was 87 years old. Eleanor was born in Lynn, the daughter of immigrants, Benjamin and Eva Cole. She grew up in Reading and was a graduate of Reading High School. She spent two years at Barnard College in New York before marrying her husband, Martin, in 1949. Martin worked in the monument business and in 1958, he had the opportunity to purchase H.P. Smith Monument Company in Stoneham. For 50 years they worked side by side building their business and earning the trust and respect of the clients they served. They say that behind every successful man is a great woman. That could be said for Eleanor. Martin was the outgoing salesman and leader. He was involved in numerous community charitable organizations and industry associations. Eleanor happily supported Martin in all his activities. She managed the books and scheduling in the office and kept him organized and confident in all his civic activities. Always at his side, but never wanting the attention. They both welcomed their son, Chip, into the monument business and continued to assist him in the office until they both were physically unable to. They enjoyed the winters spent in Boca Raton, raising their children, and assisting those grieving to create lasting tributes to their loved ones. Eleanor was the beloved wife of the late Martin Katcoff. She was the loving mother of Lizabeth Katcoff of Medford, Martin “Chip” Katcoff, Jr. & his wife Michi of N. Reading. Sister of the late Elliot Cole. Grandmother of Jennie and Rachel. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 6 at 10 a.m. at the Temple Beth Israel Cemetery, North Avenue, Wakefield. For obituary & online guestbook see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net. Arrangements by the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral home, Burlington.