Eleanor R. Koslow was known for her quick wit and warm sense of humor, and used both of those gifts to produce numerous musical comedy shows for St. Louis area temples, synagogues, and other groups. Mrs. Koslow, a longtime resident of Creve Coeur, died of natural causes Tuesday, June 2 at the Westchester Nursing Facility in Chesterfield. She was 86.

Mrs. Koslow, daughter of Henrietta Kalmes and Joseph Platke, was born in St. Louis on July 15, 1924. She was a graduate of Soldan High School and attended Washington University’s School of Fine Arts for one year. She was married to the late Ralph Koslow for 55 years. He died in January, 2001. She worked for the County Older Resident Program (CORPS) of the St. Louis County government, for several years.

Mrs. Koslow enjoyed congregational life. In her earlier years, she was affiliated with Shaare Zedek Congregation and then later joined B’nai El Congregation.

“Mom’s quick wit and sense of humor enabled her to write many musical comedies for local synagogues,” recalls her daughter, Netta Silverstein (Mitchell) of St. Louis. “The majority of the skits consisted of musical parodies that brought Yiddish touches and ‘schtick’ to delighted audiences. In addition to these three-act productions, she wrote parodies for bowling banquets, teachers’ appreciation tributes as well as entertainment for wedding anniversaries and graduations. She also provided entertainment for her husband’s Masonic Lodge.”

Mrs. Koslow began her musical and song parody writing career at Nusach Hari B’nai Zion and Shaare Zedek congregations. Netta Silverstein, who performed in some of her mother’s later shows, including one called “The Wedding” at B’nai El, said her mom loved to bring joy to audiences and would take special care of seniors, arranging for vans to bring them to see dress rehearsals.

“Rain, shine or snow, she was there and she never charged a penny to the many organizations and congregations that netted hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years,” she said. “She presented the shows, and Dad sold the tickets. She was the best Mom any child could ever ask for.”

Survivors in addition to Netta Silverstein include another daughter, Karen Kaye (Randy Fiddleman) of Creve Coeur, two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery on White Road, Rabbi Susan Taive of Central Reform Congregation officiated.

Contributions in Mrs. Kolslow’s honor may be made to the Jewish Family & Children’s Service, 10950 Schuetz Road, St. Louis, Mo. 63146 or to St. John’s Mercy Hospice, 1000 Des Peres Road, St. Louis, Mo. 63131.