Brecht, Eldon John

Eldon John Brecht, 75, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, surrounded by his family at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha, following a courageous battle with cancer. Services: 10 a.m. Monday, St. Michael's Catholic Church, Norway, with the Rev. Jack McClure C.PP.S. and the Rev. Harry Koelker officiating. Burial: St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery, Norway. Visitation: 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the parish center, with Scripture service at 8 p.m. by the Rev. Dustin Vu, followed by a rosary.

 Eldon was born Aug. 15, 1934, near Watkins, Iowa, to Eldred and Lila Emanuel Brecht. He graduated from Norway High School Class of ‘52. On March 1, 1960, he married Bernice Wilhelm at St. John's Catholic Church, Blairstown.

 Survivors include his wife, Bernice; children Randy Brecht, Norway, Tim (Dawn) Brecht, Center Point, Connie (Bill) Boyd, New Hampton, and Greg (Ann) Brecht, Cedar Rapids; 16 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sisters, Garlyn Kimm and Beth (Rich) Haage; and brothers, Gary (Joy) Brecht, Bill (Mary) Brecht and Terry (Linda) Brecht.

 Preceding him in death were his parents; brothers, John and Richard; and sister, Donna Brecht.

 Eldon served in the U.S. Army 1956-58, and was chief ranger for Catholic Order of Foresters. He worked at Amana Refrigeration for 38 years and Ray's Foodland for 30 years. 

He thoroughly enjoyed his time with family and friends, attending numerous sporting events and activities of his children and grandchildren, outings to casinos, and trips to Branson. Eldon was very kindhearted and touched many lives.

 Eldon's family would like to extend their gratitude and special thanks to Dr. William Fusselman and staff at Iowa Blood and Cancer Center as well as the staff at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy.

Arrangements are with Brosh Funeral Service, Norway.