Shirley Anne Eckhardt

Shirley Anne Eckhardt, 89, of Belvidere, died Tuesday, February 28, 2017 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born August 6, 1927 in Rockford the daughter of Eno and Margaretta (Bowman) Dirksen. Graduated from West High School class of 1945 and went on to graduate from the Rockford School of Nursing. She worked for St. Joseph Hospital for many years as a nurse retiring in 1976. A faithful member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Belvidere, member of the Fraternal Order Eagles Club 392 of Rockford for over 50 years and past Women’s Auxiliary President. Shirley was so very proud of her family and they were her first priority in life. She was kind and caring person with a heart of gold, she will be missed greatly.
Survivors include her children Mary A. (Steve) Gallano; Patty M. (Gene) Armstrong, William E. (Linda) Howe, Ronald D. (Suzanne) Howe and Kenneth S. (Angie) Howe; 20 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren, 12 great great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her, husband, William Eckhardt; her parents; 4 sons, James F. Howe, David A. Howe, Michael J. Howe and an infant son and great granddaughter, Cortney Gallano-Pearson and brother, Ronald Dirksen.
Funeral service Saturday, March 4, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with Rev. Allan Buss officiating. Visitation from 10 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home. Interment will be held in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Machesney Park. In lieu of flowers memorials in her name to The Carpenters Place, 1149 Railroad Ave, Rockford, IL 61104. Express online condolences at: www.fitzgeraldfh.com