Dorothy Alice Ecenbarger

Dorothy Alice Ecenbarger (née Christman), age 97, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025. Born on September 18, 1928, Dorothy lived a long life marked by a devotion to family, friends and community. She resided in Coventry Meadows at the time of her passing.

A founder of Fort Wayne’s Bait and Hook Store (now Hook and Arrow) and a cherished member of St. Michael Lutheran Church, Dorothy never met a stranger. She collected and spread joy whenever she could, whether that was through her love of jewelry and fashion, sharing a creative new recipe, or playing a game of cards.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Loyd Ecenbarger, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage; her parents, Hazel and Albert; sisters, Evelyn France and Rosie Sorg; grandchildren, Jeff Eastes, Robert Ecenbarger, and Kelly Jo Ecenbarger.

Dorothy’s family extends through five generations and multiple branches. She is survived by her sisters, Phyllis Sorg and Donna Jean Hunkler; her children, Virginia Brecount (Joe), Jim Ecenbarger (Vera), Terry Ecenbarger (Amy), and Gary Ecenbarger (Kathy). She leaves behind a legacy of love through her 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and seven (soon to be eight) great-great-grandchildren.

Dorothy’s memory will be cherished by all who knew her for her warmth, generosity, and sense of humor. Her family and friends will remember her as a loving matriarch whose never-ending kindness touched many lives.

Funeral service 11:00 am on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at D.O. McComb and Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, IN, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation is also from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm on Tuesday November 25, 2025, at the funeral home. Committal and burial at Covington Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to Humane Fort Wayne.