Clara Eckerle

Clara Marie Eckerle, 95, Wausau, died January 14, 2015 at Cedar Creek Manor, Kronenwetter, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

Clara was born November 3, 1919 in Athens, WI, to the late Otto and Anna (Batscheider) Czech. She was baptized April 18, 1920, confirmed April 9, 1933 and later married February 23, 1946 all at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau. During WWII, Clara worked at Marathon Electric winding motors. After the war, she met the love of her life, LeRoy Eckerle, whom she later married. The couple was blessed with one son, James. Clara enjoyed the independence of working outside the home and continued to work at several jobs before returning to Marathon Electric for another 20 years eventually retiring from there. Sadly, she said goodbye to LeRoy one last time when he died March 6, 1979 after 33 years together.

Throughout her life, Clara was a strong and self-sufficient woman who lived life on her own terms. She always took great pride in her little home and always made sure that she was meticulously dressed. Clara enjoyed watching the birds frolic in the backyard and tending to her flowers and home. Quieter times at home often found her working on crocheting afghans, making dolls and looking forward to setting up her Christmas tree each year.

Clara is survived by her loving son, James (Margaret) Eckerle of DePere; grandchildren, Thomas (Tracy) Eckerle of Green Bay and Kathleen (Jordan) Koene of San Francisco, CA; great-grandson, Harvey Jackson Koene; and extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her 2 sisters and 6 brothers.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday, January 19 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wausau. Reverend Zach Holdorf will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until the time of services at the church on Monday. Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park. You may sign our family guestbook at www.helke.com. Helke Funeral Home is helping the family with arrangements.

A very special word of thanks goes to the staff of Cedar Creek Manor and the nurses and staff of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice services for their kind and compassionate care. A heartfelt word of thanks also goes to Clara's cousin, Myrt Woelfle, for the thoughtful time and companionship she gave to her cousin over the years.