Willard Lee Eck, 87, of Parsons died at 7:10 p.m. Monday, June 11, 2012, at Parsons Presbyterian Manor. He had been in failing health.

He was born June 22, 1924, in St. Joseph, Mo., to Jerry and Ruth (Holt) Eck. As a young boy, he moved with his family to Mound City and Blue Mound, and later Dennis, where he grew up and attended school. He was a graduate of Labette County Community High School in Altamont.

He served during World War II in the United States Navy in Pearl Harbor. He then worked for the Labette County Road and Bridge Department and, after nearly 40 years of service, he retired as foreman.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and being outdoors.

He married Wilma Jean Shaughnessy on Aug. 12, 1948, in Parsons. She survives of the home.

Other survivors include a daughter, Frances Wolgamott and her husband, Robert, of Parsons; two granddaughters, Pammy and Michelle Wolgamott; a brother, J.D. Eck and his wife, Wilma, of Girard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Garrey Eck; and a sister, Mildred Hambleton.

Following cremation, a celebration of life gathering will be from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Parsons Presbyterian Manor. 

Memorials are suggested to Parsons Presbyterian Manor. These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, 67357.

Online condolences may be left at www.forbeshoffman.com.