In Memoriam, Eleanor Eisenmenger

On February 23, the Randall Davey Audubon Center lost a much-beloved volunteer. Eleanor Eisenmenger worked in our visitor center for more than fifteen years greeting guests and delighting anyone who was fortunate enough to spend time with her.

Shortly after moving to Santa Fe in 1994, Eleanor began coming to the Center for events, hiking, and browsing the nature store. In 2024 we featured her in our newsletter as a much-appreciated long-time volunteer. Here is what she said about her time at the Randall Davey Audubon Center: I have always felt strongly that every person who walks in the door is my friend. The very fact that they are here is proof that they are a kindred spirit. Over the years I can't remember ever being disappointed. Also, I love the birds and animals (especially bears and bobcats!)

Around 2018 we had a large resident black bear that was occasionally glimpsed on the trails. Eleanor christened him Horace. We later found out the bear was a female. It didn’t matter, Eleanor said. The name Horace stood.

She was a unique and spirited human who charmed us all with her kindness and stories of Africa and other travel destinations. We are so fortunate that she shared her love of music, animals, and people with us. She will be greatly missed by the volunteers, staff, and visitors of the Randall Davey Audubon Center. We will be planting a tree in her memory on the grounds in spring.