Lucille Eckhardt

Lucille Kathleen Eckhardt, 98, of Fergus Falls, peacefully entered her heavenly home on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at PioneerCare. A woman of quiet strength, she lived independently until the last several weeks when various health issues brought her to long-term care where she spent ample time in her last days reminiscing, giggling and storytelling with her daughter, nieces, and caregivers.

Born on December 30, 1926, in Vining, Minnesota, Lucille was the beloved daughter of Sankey and Alma (Floen) Peterson. She was one of eight children and grew up on the family farm near Battle Lake, where she learned the value of hard work, humility, and caring for others. After becoming a proud graduate of Battle Lake High School's Class of 1945, Lucille found her calling in the field of nursing, dedicating her career to caring for others in various settings, including her work as a psychiatric aide at the Fergus Falls State Hospital. Her kindness and gentle nature touched the lives of many.

In June 1951, Lucille married Oliver Everson and faithfully supported him during his service in the U.S. Air Force, moving from Minnesota to Colorado and New Mexico. Together, they welcomed three children - Barbara, Jeffrey, and Norman.

On November 14, 1969, she was remarried to the love of her life, George Eckhardt. Together they built their dream home on Long Lake, where they spent their days side by side enjoying the beauty of nature, a shared love for simple joys, and deep companionship. Lucille enjoyed crafting, sewing, cross-stitching, watching birds, especially hummingbirds at the feeder, reading, or working on puzzles, and her presence brought warmth and calm. She also enjoyed gardening with her husband, cooking, and baking.

Lucille's life was deeply rooted in faith. Psalm 121 was her favorite, a source of strength and peace: "I lift my eyes up to the mountains-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth..."  This passage reflects her trust in God's constant care and her belief that He watched over her every step, even unto her final days.

She was preceded in death by her parents; all seven of her siblings - Milt, Arthur, Corrine, Fran, Alice, Arlene, and Marge; her husband George; and two sons, Jeffrey and Norman Everson.

Lucille leaves behind a legacy of love through her daughter, Barbara Holl of Lexington, KY; her grandchildren Melissa Mears and Krista Cassel (of Barbara), Joshua and Justin Everson and Jessica Gardner (of Norman), and Michelle Cassias, Kimberly Everson, and Heather Amundson (of Jeffrey); and numerous great-grandchildren who will carry forward the lessons of love, faith, and quiet strength she so beautifully modeled.

Her life was a testimony of grace, and her memory will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. 

Visitation: 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Olson Funeral & Cremation, Fergus Falls.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m., Tuesday July 8, 2025 at Olson Funeral & Cremation

Clergy: Reverend Craig Wentzel

Interment: First Lutheran Cemetery, Battle Lake.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral & Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com