Estelle S. Kreinik

Estelle S. Kreinik, 94, of Cockeysville, Md., died October 30, at Broadmead in Cockeysville. She was born in New York City to Dorothy Friedman Stack and Joseph B. Stack. She was married to Jerry Kreinik for 65, years, until his death in 2011.

Three sons and their wives, Ted and Arlene of Newtown, Douglas and Myla of Parkersburg, W.Va., and Andrew and Jacqueline of Owings Mill, Md.; and four grandchildren survive Mrs Kreinik.

A graduate of Hunter College and Teachers College Columbia University, New York City, Mrs Kreinik taught clothing and design during World War II at the University of Tennessee, and later at Brooklyn College and at the University of Maryland in College Park. As a home economics teacher in Catonsville, Md., one of her favorite admonitions to students was, “What is the difference between water and steam?” Her answer was, “One degree. If you make life one degree better for the next person, you will make a difference.” She approached her life, her teaching, and later her business in that way.

Following several unexpected career turns, the Kreiniks started Kreinik Manufacturing Company after moving to Parkersburg, W.Va. The company has become a world leader in manufacturing and distributing silk and metallic needlepoint embroidery threads. These materials are now used by millions of people throughout the world and are sold through local retail stores, national chains, and on the Internet.

Mrs Kreinik was active in a number of community organizations in Parkersburg, including the library, the Cultural Arts Center, and Hadassah.

She was a woman of determination, believed in a diverse environment, and welcomed new adventure. Mrs Kreinik loved to cook ethnic foods and loved to take cooking, history, and language classes. She and her husband traveled through the United States and Europe.

Mrs Kreinik moved to Broadmead, a continuing care center, following her husband’s death. She made many friends there and actively participated in and contributed to activities there.

There will  be a short service at Broadmead in Cockeysville, Md., on November 18.

Donations in her honor may be made to Temple B’nai Israel, PO Box 1894, Parkersburg WV 26101, or the Kreinik Fund at the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation, 1620 Park Avenue, Parkersburg WV 26101.

The Newtown Bee       November 16, 2012