Wilmer G. Eichelberger

AGE: 87 • Deptford

Wilmer G. “Bud” Eichelberger, 87, of Deptford, formerly of Everett, PA, was called home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, February 3rd, 2016.

He was born Monday, July 30th, 1928 at his family home in Everett, a son of the late Millard Eichelberger and Kathryn (Barnes) Eichelberger.

On May 9th, 1947 in Winchester, VA, he married Marian E. (Smith-Shaffer) Eichelberger, who passed away on September 29th, 2012. He is survived by their children,

Genie and Richard Sullo of Henderson, NV, Jon L. Eichelberger of Deptford, NJ, Susan and Robert Kwiatkowski of Sewell, NJ, a grandson, Charles “C.J.” Trefz, of Henderson, NV, and many loving cousins, friends and their families.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in passing away by an infant son Cloyd Eichelberger.

Mr. Eichelberger was a longtime member of the Erlton Baptist Church in Cherry Hill. A graduate of Everett High School, Class of 1947, Bud, as he was known to his family and friends, enlisted in the United States Navy in April of 1948, serving as a Seaman Recruit during the Korean Conflict, as a Petty Officer 1st Class, and a Chief Petty Officer during the Vietnam War until retiring in 1968.

During his 20 years of service to his country, Bud received three National Defense Service Medals, six Good Conduct Medals with Bronze and Silver Stars, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. In September of 2015, he received a Congressional Recognition, New Jersey Senate and General Assembly, Gloucester County Board of Freeholders Award for his service for two wars. He was also a member of the Cherry Hill American Legion Post #372 and the Cherry Hill VFW Post # 15031.

A member and 32nd degree Mason with the Hollywood Maryland Lodge #223 AF&AM, The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of The Central Valley of New Jersey, and the Crescent Shriners International of Burlington, New Jersey. A Cub Scout in his younger years, later serving as a Scoutmaster.

He will be remembered for being a loyal, loving father who deeply dedicated himself to his family. His philosophy on life was to live each day to its fullest potential, never wasting a moment. He utilized his life experiences to make the world a better place.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 10th, 2016 at 11:00 am in the Chapel at Dalla Valle Funeral Service, Main Street, Everett, with Rev. Robert R. Robertson officiating.

Friends may call at Dalla Valle Funeral Service, Main Street, Everett on Tuesday from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, on Wednesday from 10:00 am until the hour of service and share memories online at www.dallavalle-everett.com.

Burial will be held at the Everett Cemetery with Full Military Honors conducted by the Everett Honor Guard. The Everett Lodge #524, F&AM will conduct services at the funeral home Tuesday evening at 7:30 pm.

Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Bud to the Wounded Warrior Project, 301 Grant Street, Suite 900, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219 or online at www.woundedwarriorpro ject.org. – See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/courierpostonline/obituary.aspx?n=Wilmer-G-Eichelberger&pid=177627657#sthash.GpfvH40H.dpuf