Glen James Eckert, 61, of Waterloo, died Sept. 4, 2015, in the company of his devoted wife and true love of 40 years, Nancy Eckert (nee Schmitt).

He was born April 1, 1954, in Red Bud.

Throughout his nearly three year journey with glioblastoma brain cancer, his positive attitude and faith comforted his family and friends. He never complained and was truly cherished by all who touched his life. Glen was a dear friend to many and to Sparky, his ever-present, loving dog.

He will always be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit and love of nature and wildlife.

His enduring spirit is an example of a life well-lived.

Glen retired from Union Pacific Railroad after 35 years as a locomotive engineer. His friends and railroad buddies filled his life with joy and laughter.

In addition to his wife, Glen is survived by his children  Angela (Bill) Wirth and Casey (Jean) Eckert; grandchildren Nora and William Wirth, and Sophie, Ellie and Maggie Eckert; father Earl Eckert; sisters Marlou (Mark) Raeber and Diane (Kenny) Kern; treasured uncle James (Mary) Eckert; sisters- and brother-in-laws Ken Gibbs, Greg Lane, Ruth (Dub) Bankes and Susie (Mike) Kaestner; along with extended family and close friends Randy (Donna) Eckert, Royann (Jim) Touchette, Shirley (Ron) Dehn, Marcia (Don) Stroh, John Watson, Ronnie Brinkmann, Brad Karn, Monte Foster, Ricky Kurtz, Bob Moll, Tommy Ryan, Mike Wagner and other countless family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Gustavia Eckert (nee Hauptfleisch); grandparents Richard and Anita Eckert (nee Mueller), Gustav Hauptfleisch, Olga Hauptfleish Eichelmann (nee Wilde) and Ervin Eichelmann; uncle Roy (Ardell) Eckert; mother- and father-in-law Wendell and Rita Schmitt (nee Vogt); and sister-in-laws Mary Anne Gibbs and Jeanne Lane.

A memorial service will be held Sept. 12, at 1 p.m., at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Waterloo, Father Osang Idagbo C.M. and Pastor Matt Friz officiating.

Immediately following the service, friends and family are invited for a Celebration of Life at Knotty Pines in Paderborn.

As an expression of sympathy, memorials may be made to

St. Paul United Church of Christ of Floraville, Gibault Catholic High School or Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic School.