In loving memory of

Beatrice Louise Eckert
June 3, 1924 - October 30, 2012


Beatrice "Bea" Louise Eckert, 88, of Winona, died surrounded by family on Tuesday, October 30, 2012 at Sauer Health Care after a short battle with cancer.

Bea was born in Mauston, WI on June 3, 1924 to Walter and Ruth (Lane) Bell. She was raised and attended school in La Crosse. When she was 15 years old, Bea was united in marriage to William Eckert. After living in Wisconsin for the early years of their marriage, they relocated to Winona and loved being social and visiting with friends at local pubs. After William died in 1994, Beatrice began volunteering with Winona Volunteer Services and was active with the VFW and Eagle's Auxiliaries. In her spare time, Bea enjoyed cross stitching, especially on pillowcases; and working on the newspaper crossword puzzles. Above all, she loved spending time with her family and grandchildren. Her quick wit and smart-aleck nature will be missed by many.

Beatrice is survived by her children, Ruth Wilson of Winona, William Eckert, Jr. of Kenosha, WI, Gerald (Judy) Eckert of Kenosha, and Henry (Bonnie) Eckert of Red Wing; 18 grandchildren; sister, Anna Meadows in Oklahoma; brother, Walter Eckert of La Crosse; and many great and great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, William; and brothers, Donald and Charlie Eckert.

Funeral service will be held at 3pm on Friday, November 2, 2012 at Hoff Funeral & Cremation Service-Hansen Goodview Chapel with Deacon James Welch officiating. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service. At 1pm, the VFW Auxiliary 1287 and Eagles Auxiliary will offer a short service. Private family graveside service will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery.

Please share a memory of Bea with her family and sign the guestbook online at www.hofffuneral.com.

Tributes

Deb Wilson wrote on Nov 9, 2012:

"Bea and I used to "click," we both were "spunky".......she used to have a nickname for me, and only HER and I will know that name. I miss you dearly gramma' and LOVE YOU ! RIP and be at peace now with the angels......LOVE YOU BEA ! XOXOXOXO"

Joyce Packard wrote on Nov 5, 2012:

"Ruth, I was sad to hear about your mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of your loss. Your mom was a great lady and a lot of fun. I know that my mom will really miss her. I am sorry I could not make it to the funeral. I will see you soon. Peace and Love being sent your way. Joyce"

Robert M. Olson wrote on Nov 2, 2012:

"Aunt Bea will be greatly missed.I am so happy I got up to Wisconsin in July to see her one last time.She was one of my favorite Aunts. Bob and Gloria Olson Sebring Florida"

Vicki Rader wrote on Nov 2, 2012:

"Ruth and family - I am thinking fondly of your Mother today and of the many memories we shared together at Volunteer Services...my condolences to all..."

RUTH HANEY wrote on Nov 2, 2012:

"i've known bea for 8 years and she was a lovely person. "

Gretchen Cook wrote on Nov 2, 2012:

"Hats off to a woman who volunteered more hours than most people work! My prayers and thoughts to her family. She will bea greatly missed. : ("

Mary Cumiskey wrote on Nov 2, 2012:

"Bea was one of a kind. Bea and Bill were regulars at the 500 Club. Bea was always upbeat and mischievous you had to keep an eye on her. After Bill passed away she seemed to come into her own I have seen her many times throughout the years and she still had that look in her eye and a smile on her face. I am very glad I met her and think of her often and will do so in the future. Thinking of you at your time of loss. Rest in Peace Bea."

Teresa Stedman wrote on Nov 2, 2012:

"Sincere sympathy and love to you dear Ruthie & family & friends. What a fun & well-loved lady .You gave her such wonderful T.L.C. Tracy S. (HHA)"

Janette Ness wrote on Nov 1, 2012:

"I have many fond memories of this dear,spunky lady. She will be truly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace."