Eileen E. Metz

Eileen E Metz of Barrington, IL peacefully departed this life on September 23, 2024. Eileen was the beloved wife of Steen for 62 years, devoted mother of Annalise (Dan) and Christina (Tim), proud grandmother of Alex, Olivia, Sarah, and Claire, loving sister of William (Hannah) and Katherine (Nils), loving aunt of Susannah, Alastair, and Nicholas; and a vivacious and loyal friend to many. 

Born on October 1, 1936, Eileen was raised by her mother, Zabel, while her father served in the British Royal Air Force. As a young girl, Eileen and her mother experienced life in many European countries. In her late teens, she bravely entered the working world as an apprentice buyer at Bourne & Hollingsworth, a London department store. She advanced to become a sales trainer, traveling throughout England. At 23 years old, her restless spirit prompted her to explore a life in Toronto, Canada, where she would ultimately meet the love of her life, Steen. 

Steen and Eileen met at a party of a mutual Danish friend and quickly discovered they had lived around the corner from one another in London! It was meant to be; they married in 1962 in Toronto and eventually settled in Deerfield, IL where they raised their daughters. 

Eileen was full of life, laughter, creativity, and generosity. She volunteered as a Brownie leader and taught music and art appreciation programs at her daughters’ grade school. She worked outside of the home at Sara Lee, conducting plant tours and culinary demonstrations. She passed along her wry sense of humor by introducing her daughters to classic British comedies like Monty Python and Fawlty Towers. Their love of music is rooted in the records that Eileen played at home, from Beethoven to Tom Jones. 

Steen and Eileen settled into retired life as snowbirds, splitting their time between Lincolnshire, IL, and Sanibel, FL (a family favorite). Eileen remained active, volunteering for Meals on Wheels and local art organizations, and discovered a love for painting and writing. They eventually returned full-time to Illinois, living in Barrington, and enjoying the proximity to family and friends.

Eileen will always be remembered for her broad and easy smile, bright laughter, heart full of love, and unwavering support for her family. 

Visitation will take place on Sunday, October 20, from 1:00-4:00 PM, followed immediately by a memorial service, at Davenport Funeral Home, 149 W Main Street, Barrington, IL, 60010 (847-381-3411). In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Eileen’s name to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org