~ Dec. 1, 2023 ~
Shirley Ann (Overturf) Eckhardt passed away Dec. 1, 2023. Born and raised on the family farm in Sutton to Nellie (Knudsen) and Harry Overturf, she met her high school sweetheart, Bill Eckhardt, while attending Sutton High School. Their marriage spanned 61 years until Bill’s passing in 2012. Together, they raised five sons: Bruce, Jeff, Craig, David and Jay Eckhardt and were blessed with eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren who were the source of great pride and joy in Shirley’s life. Following her dedication to raising her family, Shirley pursued her passion for interior design, earning an Associate’s degree from Scottsdale Community College. Her talent blossomed as she worked as a designer for Calico Corners in Scottsdale and ran her own design consultancy, Sundown Interiors.
In 1991, Shirley and Bill retired to Fountain Hills, AZ, where they cherished the town’s small-town charm, breathtaking view and the beauty of the surrounding desert. They enjoyed and stayed actively engaged in both the local community and their church.
Details regarding a celebration in honor of Shirley’s life will be shared later. Contributions in her memory can be made to the Heard Museum in Phoenix or the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Cener in Rio Verde, AZ.
