Marvin "Ike" Eichelberger

Rockford ¬– Marvin Eichelberger, 84, lifelong Rockford resident, died Nov. 5, 2016 at Highview in the Woodlands, surrounded by his family’s love. Born Dec. 7, 1931 in Rockford, son of Floyd and Orvetta Eichelberger. Ike graduated from West High School and was a veteran of the Korean War, enlisting in the army at 19 with his brother and four close friends, and receiving 2 Purple Heart Medals. He was an insurance salesman and Branch Manager for Bankers Life & Casualty for 25 years; member of LLL Society, Verdi Club, PGA Golf League and Macktown Men’s Association.

Ike loved spending time with family, camping and fishing, and dancing with his “Sweetie”. He was an avid golfer, playing the County courses, with Macktown his favorite. Ike was loved for making everyone laugh and feel good about themselves; he never met a stranger and cherished the many friends he had. His competitive spirit was contagious, especially with his children and grandchildren.

Survived by beloved companion of 40 years, Judy Gilbaugh; daughter, Linda (Bob) Palm; son, Steve (Jodi) Eichelberger; Dan Gilbaugh; Denise (Bill) McBride; grandchildren Michael, Craig (Erika Saxon) and Eric Palm; Sarah and Kate McBride; extended family Steve (Jane) Crippen and family; Marc (Laura and Alice Bridges), Nadine and Joseph Raia. Predeceased by; parents; brother, Walter Eichelberger; former wife and mother of his children, Greta Graham; infant granddaughter, Emily Eichelberger.

The family wishes to thank Highview In the Woodlands for their wonderful sensitive care, especially the CNAs who always treated him with dignity, and Northern Illinois Hospice who made his last week very comfortable.

Funeral Service, Friday Nov. 11, at 10 a.m. at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park IL. Visitation Thursday Nov. 10, from 5-8 p.m. and Friday Nov.11, from 9:30-10 a.m. condolences to sunsetfhmemgardens.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family for a tribute to be named later.