ASHLAND: Berniece Eckard Sigafoos passed away early Friday morning following a 3-month illness.
Born February 23, 1921, to Leslie & Carrie Shenberger of Hayesville, Ohio (Ashland County) she often recalled stories of the happy childhood she enjoyed there.
For a time, her family lived in Ashland, Ohio where she graduated from Ashland High School in 1939. She was a member of the "39 Club" which met for many years until 2009.
On March 16, 1943, she married Wilbur Eckard, who was deceased in 1979.
There are two surviving children, Karen Suzanne First of Mansfield, Ohio and Bruce Eckard of Durham, North Carolina; stepson William Eckard is deceased.
Also surviving are grandchildren Shelly Philpott, Erick First and Brandy Yockey, all of Mansfield, Ohio, Megan Eckard Westrum of Lexington, Ohio, and Amy and Tara Eckard, address unknown; there are eight great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews all residing locally, and descendants of William who live in California.
Berniece and Wilbur built and operated the Ashland Drive-In Theatre from 1953 to 1979. In the mid-1980s, Berniece operated Bernie's Book Store in Ashland, Ohio.
In February 1983, she married Dale Sigafoos, who was deceased in 1996.
Also preceding Mrs. Sigafoos in death are two brothers: Harold and Robert Shenberger and a sister, Frances Hutchinson.
Berniece enjoyed many hobbies and was a very talented, creative lady. She made many friends while taking lessons and playing the organ.
Mrs. Sigafoos wishes were not to have any visitation, but a graveside service will be held at a later date at Ashland Co. Memorial Park.
The family suggests memorial contributions may be made in Berniece's name to Med-Central Hospice, 335 Glessner Ave., Mansfield, OH., 44903.
Heyl Funeral Home, 227 Broad St., Ashland, OH., assisted the family with arrangements.
An online register book is available for those who would like to express condolences at
www.heylfuneralhome.comPublished in the News Journal on December 17, 2011