John H. Eckhart

John H. Eckhart, 83, a longtime farmer formerly of State Center, died Friday, August 13, 2010, at Bickford Cottage in Marshalltown. Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, August 16, 2010, at Hillside Cemetery in State Center, with Pastor Joan Swander officiating. There will be no visitation. Memorials may be made to Iowa River Hospice. For condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. The Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for John and his family. 641-844-1234. John was born November 17, 1926, in State Center, Iowa, the son of William H. and Lucretia (Riemenschneider) Eckhart. He graduated from State Center High School with the Class of 1943. John served his country proudly in the United States Army from October 1945 through December 1946. Following this time, he lived and farmed in the State Center area until moving to Marshalltown in 1980. John was an avid fisherman and hunter in his younger years, devoting the majority of his life to farming. He is survived by his sisters Janet Eggers and Helen Nolta, both of State Center; and a brother William (Darlene) Eckhart, also of State Center; along with numerous nieces and nephews. In death, John was rejoined with his parents; brothers Glen Eckhart and Dale Eckhart; and sisters Doris Westphal and Lois Smith.