Donald Eicher

Donald D. Eicher age 84 of Darlington, WI, passed away Saturday, March 13, 2021 at Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County in Darlington, WI. He was born October 19, 1936 in Dodgeville, WI, the son of Arthur and Margaret A (Hughes) Eicher. Don grew up in the Dodgeville/Argyle areas, graduating from Argyle High School in 1954. In 1956, he joined the United States Army serving in Japan. He continued to serve in the Army Reserves and was honorably discharged in 1963. Don was united in marriage to Barb Olson on December 28, 1963 at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Darlington. He worked at Lafayette F.S. in Gratiot for 10 years and was a township patrolman in Gratiot Township for 27 years. In retirement, Don drove grain trucks for Rolyn Smith, and worked for Lamont and Truman Townships. He lastly was a patrolman for Elk Grove Township. Don is survived by his wife: Barb at home; three daughters: Joan Thompson of Darlington, Jeanie (Josh) Eicher Johanningmeier of Middleton, WI, Shelly (Brandon) Masbruch of Belmont, WI and Curt (Kathy) Shager of Marshall, WI; nine grandchildren: Carly Shager; Kari (Matt) Gornik, Kyle (Madison Wymore) Thompson; Reese, Lane, Tayte Johanningmeier; Julia Mau, Brynn, Saige Masbruch; and one great grandchild: Miller Gornik. He was preceded in death by his father: Art Eicher in 1954, his mother and stepfather: Margaret A Olson in 2012 and Clarence Olson in 1994; his daughter: Susan Shager in 1995; one brother: Dale and sister-in-law Kay Eicher; and one sister: Carole Caflish.Don was a member of Darlington United Methodist Church and former member of Wiota Lutheran Church where he served on its church council. He was a member of the Wiota Fire Department for 28 years and Bates-O'Brien-Howe-Weigel-Roelli American Legion Post #214 of Darlington. Don spent a lot of his time "tinkering around" in his shop and "tooling around" on his tractor. He enjoyed both working with wood and metal as he created new inventions. Working in the yard was also a favorite pastime of his. Don cherished the time he spent with his family creating memories and sharing stories they will remember forever. He was a gentle, kind man who will be deeply missed by his family and friends. A funeral service will be held Thursday, March 18, 2021 at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church in Darlington (15691 County Road K, Darlington, WI) with Rev. Angela Utter of Darlington United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Union Grove Cemetery, Darlington. A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 and on Thursday from 10:00 to 10:45 AM at First Baptist Church in Darlington. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com. For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Don's name. Due to wisconsin state mandate, masks are to be worn throughout your visit inside the church and proper social distancing guidelines are to be practiced at all times.