Thomas Eckert

1933 - 2026

Thomas Eckert

March 19, 1933 - January 23, 2026

Thomas J. Eckert, 92, Army Veteran, formerly of Eureka IL, died on January 23, 2026, at the Villa East Health Care Center, in Sherman IL.

He was born March 19, 1933 to Jacob & Martha (Shipkens) Eckert. On January 24, 1959, he married the love of his life, Martha "Marty" Poropat, in Chicago IL. She died May 14, 2021. He is survived by his children; Nancy Eckert-Martin (Terry Brown) of Springfield IL, Greg (Margie) Eckert of Columbus OH, Karen (Mike) McGlaughlin of Washington IL and Michael (Darla) Eckert of Henry IL. He was a devoted grandfather of 9, and a great-grandfather of 10. He was also an uncle, cousin and friend of many. Tom was predeceased by his parents, his wife and his brothers and their spouses; Joseph (Mary) Eckert, Phillip (Jane) Eckert and Wilfred (Betty) Eckert.

Tom served the Eureka community over the years as a teacher, Junior High School principal, audio visual director and bus driver; as a Trustee and Eucharistic Minister for St. Luke's parish; a Township Trustee and as a volunteer for various Illinois senior programs. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Peoria Camera Club, and Jaycees.

A visitation will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 12 Noon until time of the Mass of Christian Burial, at St. Luke's Catholic Church, 904 E. Reagan Dr, Eureka IL 61530. Army Military Rites will follow after Mass. A private cremation will be accorded by the Argo-Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home. The family will be planning a graveside service at Olio Cemetery at a later date.

Family & Friends can leave condolences online at argoruestmanharris.com

ARGO-RUESTMAN-HARRIS FUNERAL HOME

508 S. MAIN STREET

EUREKA IL 61530

309-467-2423