Jim Eck

Jim was born in Springfield, IL, the 2nd son of Emerick B. and Elizabeth Moore Eck. He married Elizabeth Charlene Votsmier in June 1955, in Jacksonville, IL. She preceded him in death in 2012.

Jim started his working career at the local grain elevator while attending Routt Catholic High School, graduating in 1951. He proudly served his country in the US Army from 1951 to 1955, with two years in Korea. Following his service, he returned to the agricultural field, working for a number of feed companies for over 20 years while living and raising his family in Rushville. In his early 50s, Jim found his passion for sales and real estate. Returning to Sangamon County in 1984, Jim and Charlene established Jim Eck Realty, serving the surrounding farm communities. They belonged to a couple’s bridge club in Rushville with friends for over 25 years. Jim could usually be found outdoors driving to and from one of his farms and visiting with friends over coffee. He was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church in Rushville and St. Mary's Catholic Church in New Berlin. Jim was active in the Knights of Columbus, the Lions Club, and the American Legion in both Rushville and New Berlin.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Frank and George Eck; and sister, Sharon Fulton.

James is survived by his four children, Tim Eck of Godfrey, IL, Bev (Brad) Tucker of Colorado Springs, CO, Tom Eck of Dallas, TX, and Bonnie Heitz of Rushville; four grandchildren, Cole (Alaina) Heitz of Rushville, Andrew (Kayla) Heitz of Bloomington, Ashley (Jeremy Langston) Tucker and Brent (Jade Hidalgo) Tucker, both of Colorado Springs, CO; five great-grandchildren, Lily and Lucy Heitz, Hailey and Zoey Tucker, and Stella Heitz; brother, Bob (Lola) Eck of New Berlin; sister-in-law, Gail Eck of Alexander; and many nieces and nephews.

The Visitation and Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 5, 2024, on what would have been Jim’s 91st Birthday. Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 404 E. Birch St., New Berlin, until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Adam Zawadzki officiating.

Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or New Berlin Knights of Columbus 4372.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home - New Berlin, 714 East Gibson St., New Berlin, IL.