Ervin Eichstadt, age 80, of Wolsey, passed away Friday, December 13, 2019, at the Firesteel Healthcare Community in Mitchell.

His funeral was held at 1:00 PM, Friday, December 20th, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Wolsey. Burial was in St. John's Lutheran Church Cemetery, with military honors by the Hershman-Gordon Post 59 American Legion of Wolsey.

Ervin Carl Eichstadt was born April 25, 1939, to Otto and Hertha (Krueger) Eichstadt at Wolsey. He attended Wolsey Elementary until the 6th grade. He continued his education at the St. John's Parochial School through the 8th grade.

With his parent's approval, Ervin enlisted in the United States Army at a young age. His basic training was at Fort Hood, Texas. Ervin was then stationed at Washington D.C., where he served as an honor guard guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and was also part of the motor pool. During his time stationed in Washington D.C., Ervin participated in the inauguration of President Eisenhower, gaining him the nickname "Ike."

Upon his honorable discharge, Ervin married Gloria Eckenbarger on September 22, 1958, at Hillcrest Heights, Maryland. As a married couple, they returned to his family farm at Wolsey.

Ervin was known to have the straightest corn rows in Beadle County. His work also included custom harvesting Eichstadt Brothers and Son, which was done in area states. Nearing retirement, he owned and operated Double E Trucking.

He was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church.

Ervin had the biggest smile when his grandchildren would arrive to share candy and play cards with him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Gloria; and one brother-in-law, Marlin Affeldt.

He is survived by his children; Gary Eichstadt of Chamberlain, Carol (Ed) Klich of Huron, Gail Eichstadt of Huron and Christa (Jeff) Horn of Wolsey; eight grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Ervin is also survived by one brother, Ron (Penny) Eichstadt of Wolsey; and one sister, Margaret Affeldt of Wykoff, Minnesota.

Ervin's Floral Arrangements