W. Dean Eckles, 88 of Mt. Morris, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 14, 2019, with his family by his side.
Dean was born November 26, 1930, in Bowling Green, KY, the son of Dewey and Lena (Ford) Eckles. On July 16, 1956 in Morrison he was united in marriage to Joyce Swift. They were married for 63 years and had three sons Jimmy Dean, Guy Patrick and Lonnie Elwin.
Dean served in the United States Armed Forces during the Korean War. He was stationed in Alaska from 1951-1953 as a heavy artillery gunman. When he lived in Fulton he belonged to the local Union Concrete Finishers in Clinton, IA. He was a self-employed masonry contractor for over 35 years. Dean completed his plastering apprenticeship in Clinton and after 4 years he received his Masters title in plastering. He helped build the Pine Creek Independent Church. Dean was an elder of the Pine Creek Independent Church for 52 years. He loved to play guitar, write and sing. He sang at his church biweekly. Dean loved country and bluegrass music. During his time in Alaska he sang on the radio on weekends. He was an avid sportsman.
Survivors include wife Joyce; sons Guy (Julie) Eckles of Thompson and Lonnie Eckles of Mt. Morris; brothers Jerry and Raymond Eckles both of Bownling Green, KY; 7 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren
He was preceded in death by son Jimmy; a brother and two sisters.
Graveside services will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Mt. Morris on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at 10:30 AM.
