Russell James Eckstein, age 96 of Batesville, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, December 8, 2020. The son of Henry and Augusta (Gindling) Eckstein was born on January 30, 1924 in Sunman, Indiana.
The proud US Army WWII veteran, served in India, Burma and China. Russell married his sweetheart, Rita Hartman at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, on April 7, 1951.
He worked for many years as a finisher for Romweber Furniture Company until he retired. He was a member of St. Louis Church, the St. Joseph American Legion Post #464 in St. Leon and VFW Post #3183 in Batesville.
Russell had many interests and hobbies throughout his life. He was known as an expert gardener around the area. People would bring him dying plants that he could always bring back to life. He has enjoyed hunting and fishing since he was young, providing the food for many meals and game fries. As an avid reader he had a few favorites, including, National Geographic, History and Louis L’Amour novels. Russell also played thousands of games of cards with friends, family and grandchildren. Solo was his favorite. He had a passion for the Cincinnati Reds which he passed onto his kids and grandkids, sharing many games together over the years. He and his wife, Rita enjoyed traveling and made lifelong friendships as they visited all 50 states, Bermuda, Western Europe, Puerto Rico, and wintered in Florida.
His strong faith, love of God and the Virgin Mary showed in all he did. He was a perfect example of what a father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend should be. At the sound of Russel’s voice you could hear the goodness in his heart. Stories of Russell will be told for years to come.
He is survived by his wife, Rita; daughters, Michelle Roth (Dennis) and Dolly Stirn (Paul); sons, Sam Eckstein (Rita), Kenny Eckstein (Gail), Don Eckstein (Betsy), Roger Eckstein (Lori); 13 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and 1 on the way.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Alvina Hartman and Luella Ripperger.
Mass of Christian burial will be 11:00am on Saturday, December 12, 2020 at St. Louis Catholic Church in Batesville. Burial will follow in the St. Louis Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Ripley County VFW Post #3183 and Prell-Bland American Legion Post #271.
Memorials may be made to the St. Louis School or Batesville EMS c/o Meyers Funeral Home, P.O. Box 202, Batesville, IN 47006.
In accordance with the Indiana COVID-19 precautions, all attending are required wear a mask and follow proper social distancing protocol, capacity is limited. If you are not feeling well, or if you have compromised immune system, you are encouraged to stay home.
You are welcomed to leave a message at www.meyersfuneralhomes.com on Russell’s obituary page for the family in the online guestbook.