Billy F. Eichholtz

Born in Dallas, TX, his childhood took him to many areas of the state as he and his mother followed his father's career throughout the oil fields of Texas. Soon after graduating from high school he joined the Army. In April of 1945 Billy was severely wounded in action as his division was spearheading for General George S. Patton in the European Theater during WW II. Though he was extremely proud of his service, he rarely recalled that time - feeling it was an honor and duty rather than a time on which to dwell.

Upon his return from the war, he went to work at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX where he would remain throughout his career as a Budget Analyst. Before long, Billy met the love of his life, Marilynn Hart of Kyle, TX, while both were serving as volunteers at a Billy Graham event in Alamo Stadium. Shortly thereafter, in February of 1950, they were married and a true love story ensued spanning over 67 years at the time of his passing. As Billy was merely one day older than Marilynn, both 91, though there was very little verbal communication between them anymore, you could still see the spark as often times they would be hand in hand staring endearingly into each other's eyes.

Never straying from his faith in God, Billy was a devout family man and was adored by his family and friends as he always managed to find the good in everyone he met. He lived his life to the fullest and guided, on occasion with quiet words, but most often by example. With his sense of humor and quick wit, he managed to make everyone feel at ease and right at home. A true gentleman in every sense of the word, his kind and gentle ways left lasting impressions throughout his life.

His grandchildren fondly recall special times with their Grandpa: trips to Six Flags, Backwards Hat Boat Rides, midnight runs to Albertsons for half priced doughnuts, the Double Loop Rollercoaster, Shirley Temples and Roy Rogers (Grandpa Included), his love for all you could eat buffets, tickling them and telling them not to get wet when they went swimming. From his serious approach to both miniature golf and playing pool to his frequent late night drives to New Braunfels just to save a nickel on gas, he was one of a kind. Never will be forgotten the safety and comfort they felt during the special times they spent in Grandpa's care. With his sweet tooth, sense of humor, and love of family, all of us have been truly blessed by the vital role he played in our lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lavana Eichholtz, and his son-in-law, Hal Scott (oh the pool they played). Billy is survived by his loving wife of over 67 years, Marilynn Eichholtz; his three children, Linda Scott, Bill Eichholtz and his wife, Janie, and Randy Eichholtz; seven grandchildren; Lance Eichholtz and his wife, Joni, Kristin Eichholtz and Ted Phillips, Ashley Eichholtz Moore and her husband, Kirk, Travis Eichholtz, Tucker Eichholtz, Jeff Bailey and his wife, Brooke and Scott Bailey and his wife, Rocsy. Billy was further blessed with seven beautiful great-grandchildren whom he adored, along with numerous nieces and nephews who held special places in his heart.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE

MONDAY

APRIL 10, 2017

1:00 P.M.

FORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

1520 HARRY WURZBACH ROAD

(Due to construction, all guests are required to use the rear entrance off Winans Road and turn right on Nursery Road.)

Billy's family would like to extend a special note of thanks to Dorothy Muir, RN and Brenda Phillips, CNA, along with the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their professionalism, compassionate care and counsel throughout this trying time. Special thanks are further extended to Deborah Wright and Jessie Schuelke, along with the staff of Nurse Next Door for their ongoing kindness and support as caregivers during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association of America, 322 Eight Ave, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001 or the Texas Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 130727, Tyler, TX 75713.