Bertha M. Eckelkamp, 87, Washington, passed away Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, at Cedarcrest Manor, Washington.
Mrs. Eckelkamp was born Aug. 19, 1924, in Washington, the daughter of Peter A. Hillermann and wife Marie, nee Kraft.
She was united in marriage to Maurice A. Eckelkamp May 1, 1946. She was a member of St. Francis Ladies Sodality, St. Francis Quilters and Knights of Columbus Auxiliary.
Her most cherished occupation in life was being a wife, mother and homemaker. Her favorite activities were sewing, crocheting, quilting, needlework, traveling and ballroom dancing.
Mrs. Eckelkamp babysat, washed and ironed clothes for others, made aprons for factory workers and baked cinnamon rolls, doughnuts, coffeecakes and bread.
She worked at several fast-food establishments and was a co-owner of Dairy Queen from 1975 to 1981. She was happiest when spending time with her family, playing games and cards, laughing and enjoying life.
Mrs. Eckelkamp is survived by one son, Glenn Eckelkamp and wife Jean, Byron Center, Mich.; three daughters, Rosella Alfermann and husband Ken, DeeDee Derner and husband Neil and Judy Westhoff and husband Tom, all of Washington; three brothers, Leonard Hillermann and wife Lucille, Robert Hillermann and wife Jane and Maurice Hillermann and wife Doris, all of Washington; one sister, Rosalyn Pursley and husband Vernon, New Haven; one daughter-in-law, Denise Eckelkamp, Chesterfield; one brother-in-law, Lester Eckelkamp and wife Bernice, Washington; her sisters-in-law, Laverne "Rusty" Borgerding and husband Joe, Dutzow, and Ruth Sullentrup and husband Bill and Lorraine "Mickey" Holtmeier and husband Smiley, all of Washington; 16 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one son, Ronald Eckelkamp; one brother, Peter Hillermann Jr.; one sister, Rosella Hillermann; one granddaughter, Joyce Ann Alfermann; and one grandson, Peter Derner.
Funeral services were held Monday, Jan. 9, at St. Francis Borgia Church, Washington, with Father Andrew Sigmund officiating.
Burial was in the church cemetery.
Memorials to SFB Quilters, Cedarcrest Manor Nursing Home Activity or Masses are preferred.
The family was served by Miller Funeral Home, Washington.
