Virginia Eckmann

Virginia Eckmann, 97, of Britton, SD, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Marshall County Healthcare Center in Britton, SD.

Virginia Schlichenmayer was born on October 17, 1928, to Michael and Rosina (Liedle) Schlichenmayer in Eureka, South Dakota. Shortly thereafter, she moved with her family to Leola, South Dakota. They were members of the Congregational Church, where Virginia was baptized and confirmed. She also attended school in Leola.

In 1947, Virginia was united in marriage to Raymond Eckmann. They lived in Roscoe, South Dakota, for a short while, eventually making their permanent home in Britton, South Dakota. Their family was made complete with the addition of six children: Larry, Lana, Loren, Lavon, Leon, and Lonny.

Virginia was a devoted stay-at-home mother until her children were all in school. She then worked in various clerk positions at several local businesses, including Dutch Maid Bakery, Red Owl Store, and Dakins Drug Store. Raymond managed the V.F.W. Club for several years, and Virginia assisted him in that role.

Virginia was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, a charter member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary, and also served as a past president of the Auxiliary. She was active in Cub Scouts as a Den Mother.

She enjoyed crocheting, embroidering, tending to her flower garden, and growing houseplants. Virginia especially loved spending time with her children and many grandchildren.

Grateful for having shared Virginia’s life are her children: Larry (Shirley) Eckmann, Lana Dahl, LaVon Keller, and Lonny Eckmann; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents; husband of 52 years, Raymond; sons, Leon Eckmann and Loren Eckmann; son-in-law, Chuck Dahl; 4 brothers, and 4 sisters.

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