Howard Roy Eckenwiler, 66, Beaverdam, died Feb. 27, 2010, at his residence. He was born Feb. 11, 1944, to Roy and Georgene (Bishop) Eckenwiler. He married Marlene Vorhes in 1991 and she survives.

Mr. Eckenwiler retired from Consolidated Biscuit of McComb. He was a member of the American Legion Post 382, Bluffton. He was a 1962 graduate of Beaverdam High School and was valedictorian of his class.

Surviving, in addition to his wife are step daughter, Michelle (Frank) Diaz, Anderson, Ind.; step son, Michael Thompson, Anderson, Ind.; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Other survivors are sisters, Carol Sue Hefner, Spencerville, and Sally (Leonard) Dunahay, Beaverdam; and brothers, John Eckenwiler and Vern Eckenwiler, both of Beaverdam.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Waldo Eckenwiler.

Services are at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 4, at Chiles-Laman Funeral Home, Bluffton. Pastor Michael Downey will officiate. Military rites will take place as Mr. Eckenwiler was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

Visitation is from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, at Chiles-Laman, Bluffton. Burial is at Woodland Cemetery, Beaverdam. Contributions may be made to the Hope Cancer Center.