Donald (Ernie) Lee Eck, 63, of Gamaliel, AR, passed away at his residence on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

He was born on August 28, 1962, in East St. Louis, IL, the son of William and Margie (Walker) Eck.

Don was a 1980 graduate of Collinsville High School and later graduated from Ranken Technical College, where he studied HVAC and worked in this trade until retirement. He was an avid NASCAR fan and found his true solace outdoors hunting, fishing, finding mushrooms, or simply walking in the woods.

He is survived by his loving parents, William Eck of Jonesboro, IL and Margie Eck of Collinsville, IL; three children, Jeremy Eck of Alhambra, IL, Lindsey Tedrick-Snowert of Troy, IL, and Kelsey Eck of Hartford, IL; five grandchildren, Shelby Tedrick, Kaynaan Springman, Hazel Eck, Wyatt Eck, and Norah Snowert; three brothers, Bill (Janet) Eck of Alhambra, IL, Victor Eck of Troy, ID, and Timothy Eck of Rushville, IL; along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In strict accordance with his lifelong philosophy, he would be absolutely horrified if a crowd gathered to cry over him. Therefore, a private family gathering will be held where attendees will be encouraged to remain largely silent. Following that a Memorial Gathering will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.

Memorials are suggested to Ducks Unlimited and will be accepted at the funeral home.