SGM (RET) Ronald Wayne Eckhardt, 81, of Junction City, Kansas, went to his peace with the Almighty on August 5, 2024, in his home. He was born on September 23, 1942, in Billings, Montana, the eldest child of Carl and Olinda (Hilderman) Eckhardt. He grew up in Billings and attended local schools, graduating from Billings Senior High School in 1960. He attended Eastern Montana College (MSU-Billings).
Ron entered the regular Army and retired from active duty on May 1, 1987, with the rank of Sergeant Major with 23 years of service. He married the love of his life, In Suk Kim, on August 26, 1975, in Seoul, Korea.
During his military career, he was stationed at several U.S. bases, as well as stations in Germany four times, Korea two times and Vietnam three times. He was awarded numerous medals and decorations including the Bronze Star Medal with two Oak Leaf clusters, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf clusters, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and seven Good Conduct Medals. During and after his military service, he attended State University of New York - Albany and Kansas State University. After his military retirement, he was employed as an Information Systems Business Analyst, Kansas Farm Bureau Services, Manhattan, Kansas, until his retirement in 2003. He has lived in Junction City since 1982.He was a long standing member of the American Legion Post #45.
Ron enjoyed his German-Russian heritage and extended Eckhardt/Hilderman family history. He continued his genealogy research into his retirement. Most importantly, he was especially proud of his wife, children and grandchildren. Survivors include his loving wife, In Suk Eckhardt of the home; son, Kevin Eckhardt of Scottsdale, Arizona; daughter, Erika (Jeremy) McAdams of Ankeny, Iowa; three grandchildren, Copeland Eckhardt, Harper McAdams, and Dylan McAdams; sister, Diane Tatro of Tucumcari, New Mexico.
Cremation has taken place and memorial services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to the Scoliosis Research Foundation, Kansas University, Lawrence, Kansas.