Sr. Pelzer was born in Detroit to Joseph and Mary Pelzer. She belonged to St. Rita Parish in Detroit at the time of her entrance into the Congregation of St. Joseph on Feb. 11, 1936. She received the religious name Sr. Giovanni, but later returned to using her baptismal name. She pronounced first vows on Aug. 26, 1938 and final vows on Aug. 26, 1941.
For thirty-five years Sister Eleanor taught in many schools of the congregation including St. Michael, Pontiac; St. Agnes, Flint; and Pontiac Catholic High School in Pontiac. She also served as a principal before her ministry was re-directed to health care. After completing clinical pastoral education at Mount Carmel Hospital in Detroit, Sr. Pelzer ministered as a chaplain at St. John Hospital and Medical Center for 16 years. She retired in 1989 but continued to live in the Detroit area until she came to Nazareth in 1996 where she devoted her time and energy in ministering to the needs of the sisters and community.
Sr. Pelzer is survived by a sister, Mildred Caruso; nieces and nephews.
Memorials to Congregation of St. Joseph, 3427 Gull Road, PO Box 29, Nazareth, 49074.
