Robert S. Eckhart

WASHINGTON...Robert S. Eckhart, 94, of Washington, passed away at 8:59 p.m., Saturday, May 26, 2012 at his home. Bob was born in Peoria on October 12, 1917 to Robert L. and Freda Steitz Eckhart. Bob married Mary Hapke on November 11, 1954 at St. Mark?s Lutheran Church in Washington. Among those surviving is one sister-in-law, Elaine Hapke of Pekin; two nephews, James (Barbara) Eckhart and Mark (Paula) Hapke; one niece, Karen (Alan) Phillips of Peoria and many loving dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Warren, a brother-in-law, Richard Hapke and a nephew, Joel Hapke. Bob retired from Caterpillar in 1980 after 40 years with the company. He had been a service department instructor, copy writer and wrote many service manuals. Prior to joining Caterpillar, Bob had earned his commercial pilot license and worked for the Peoria Municipal Airport for five years. He was a member of St. Mark?s Lutheran Church and had been active in the men?s group at the church. Bob was also a graduate of Peoria High School in the class of 1935. He had served as a counselor to the Boy Scouts and was a charter member of the Peoria Motorcycle Club. He also was a member of Taylor Lodge #98 F&AM, Scottish Rite Valley of Peoria and Mohammed Shrine where he had been active in the Senior Nobles. For many years Bob was a member of the VW Club of America and had served as a president of the local chapter. He also served on the board of directors for the Caterpillar Retirees Club. Funeral services for Bob will be held on Thursday, May 31, 2012 at St. Mark?s Lutheran Church with Pastor Dick Hanson officiating. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Memory Gardens south of Washington. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Mason-White Funeral Home and on Thursday from 10 to 10:45 at the church. A Masonic memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to either Methodist Hospice or St. Mark?s Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be made at masonfuneralhomes.com