Ernest Dale Eckart's Obituary
Ernest Dale Eckart, 76, of Decatur passed away on Saturday, January, 16, 2016 in Decatur Memorial Hospital.
Ernest was born September 5, 1939 in Decatur, Illinois, the son of Ernest J. and Mable (Stanley) Eckart. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, 1956-1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. He later retired from ADM as a Plant Manager, serving over twenty-two years of service. He was a member of the Mt. Zion Christian Church. Ernest enjoyed playing pool, playing cards, and golfing. He married Betty Reece on November 22, 1965 in Peoria, Illinois. They just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Ernest leaves behind his wife, Betty Eckart of Decatur; son, Bryan (Lana) Eckart of Germany; daughters, Tina (Felipe) Herrera of Decatur, Sonja Winstead of NC; brothers, Larry Eckart of Decatur, IL, Danny Eckart of Decatur, IL; sister, Ronnie (Ron) McQueen of Decatur, IL; grandchildren, Misti, Emilea, Christopher, Felina, Christian, Marina, Brianna, Hannah, Angela, Tuesday, Clayton, Anthony; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild, a host of nieces, and nephews, and many other extended family members, special children: Rodney (Marley) Miller of Mt. Zion, Teresa (Tom) Cohoon of Mt. Zion, Linda Trejo of TX, Marcia Giles of Decatur, IL, and his faithful loyal companion, Baby, and numerous friends.
Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, and three sisters.
Services to celebrate Ernest’s life will be 1 p.m. Friday, January 22, 2016 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland, Decatur, IL. Visitation will be Thursday, January 21, 2016 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home 6p.m.- 8p.m. Burial will be in Harristown Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family request any love offering be sent to Betty Eckart to help cover funeral costs.
The family of Ernest Eckart is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Ernest?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ernest?
Share a story where Ernest's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ernest you’ll never forget.
How did Ernest make you smile?