Donald Eckert

Donald W. Eckert, 74, of Albion, passed away at 7:30 am on Thursday, September 25, 2014 at North Ridge Nursing Home in Albion. Mr. Eckert was born on May 1, 1940 in Fort Wayne, a son of Russell and Jeanie (Zell) Eckert. He spent his formative years in Columbia City, and graduated from Columbia City High School in 1958. On September 3, 1983 he was married in Auburn, to his high school sweetheart Barbara Bittner, and moved to his current home in Albion in 1995. He retired from United States Air Force in 1979 after 20 years. He was also employed at various auto parts stores. Mr. Eckert was a life time member of the Gilbert Davis American Legion Post #157. He loved his Ford Mustang and was proud of his service to his Country. The surviving relatives include wife, Barbara Eckert of Albion; his children, Christina (Doug) Hensley of Albion, Lisa (Ken) Baker of New Haven, Tracie Eckert, Debbie (Kevin) Johnson both of Fort Wayne, and Rick (Christy) Kanis of Churubusco; a sister, Barbara (Lynn) Knisley of Churubusco; seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson Timothy Allen Johnson Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday at Green Center United Methodist Church, with Pastor John Shell, officiating. The family will receive friends at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, or one hour prior to the service. For those who wish, memorials may be directed to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana. ******************************************