Rev. Paul Van Eckhout

Herrin- Rev. Paul Van Eckhout, 91, of Herrin, formerly of Johnston City, passed away at 11:30 PM, Saturday, December 11, 2010 at Shawnee Christian Nursing Center in Herrin. Paul was born on July 25, 1919 in Lochgelly, WV to Theoville and Marie (Bostal) Van Eckhout. He was a member of the greatest generation and a WWII Army veteran who fought proudly and bravely overseas in the European, Middle Eastern and African Theatres. Once honorably discharged he returned home and worked many years as a tool and die maker and as a gunsmith. He was also a former pastor of the Royalton United Pentecostal Church and taught mathematics at Grace Christian school in West Frankfort for several years. He attended the Southern Illinois Worship Center in Herrin. In his spare time he enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing and gardening. He enjoyed taking and processing his own photographs and drawing with ink or chalk. He was a private man who enjoyed the little things in life and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Survivors include- Daughter- Pauletta Hammers and husband Marvin of West Frankfort Daughter- Darlene Weaver and husband George Pat of West Frankfort Step Daughter- Patsy Wells and husband Bill of Villa Grove Seven Grandsons Six Great Grandchildren Several nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his parents, former wife- Colleen Van Eckhout, son- Paul Jerry Van Eckhout, three sisters and one brother. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, December 14, 2010 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Pastor Charles Frost will officiate. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Johnston City. Military rites will be performed at graveside by the Illinois National Guard. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until time of service, Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ 201 S. 13th St/ Herrin, IL 62948.