Donald Eichhorst's Obituary
Donald John Eichhorst passed away peacefully from this life April 1, 2010 from cancer diagnosed in July 2009. Don fought every day remaining positive and hopeful to the end. Don was born in Fond du Lac, WI on August 11, 1941. At the age of 3, he became the adopted child of John and Zelpha Eichhorst. He was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Appleton, WI. He graduated from Fox Valley Lutheran High School in 1959. In 1960, Don married Marilyn Kerkhoff. They were blessed with 3 children, Robert Eichhorst, Patti (Randy) Socha, and Julie (Tom) Mason. In 1979, Don married his best friend and soul mate Barbara " Bonnie" Case.. Their joy and family became whole and complete when Don lovingly adopted her daughters, Lisa (Mark) Palfrey and Michele (Jerry) Tiedje. Don raised his family with love and respect; and the Golden Rule. He was positive and inspiring, loved to laugh and tell silly, bad jokes. He listened and advised wisely. He was always supportive with a hug and an "I love you". He gave the best of himself to us all and we were blessed to call him our husband, father, grandfather. Don and Barbara "Bonnie" shared in all things together in life, especially their love of the outdoors: camping, hiking, rafting, kayaking, and snowshoeing. They camped throughout Wisconsin, and also had memorable trips out West. Don's continuing legacy is his wife, children, and grandchildren. They are Jennifer and Jake Socha; Sarah, Laura, and Andrew Mason; Alison and Nikita Tiedje; and Daniel Palfrey. Don is further survived by Bonnie's parents Betty and Mel Case, Bonnie's sisters Sharon (Greg) Diener and Pam (Keith) Frank, Bonnie's brother Ron (Lynne) Case, and their children. Don was preceded in death by his parents. A Memorial service for Don will be held at the Fiss & Bills Funeral Home at 865 S. Westhaven Drive in Oshkosh, WI on Tuesday April 6, 2010 at 6pm, Father Jason Blahnik will officiate. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 4pm until the time of service. In Lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established in Don's name.
Fiss & Bills Funeral Home 865 S. Westhaven Drive Oshkosh, WI 54904 (920) 235-1170 wwwfissbillspoklasny.com
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