Former Chatham Twp. Women's Club Member Dies at 92

To know Ann Ecker was to know the best of what Chatham Township has to offer.

The township resident of 63 years died Sunday at the age of 92.

Ecker, born in Newark in 1923, was famous for her iced tea and homemade chocolate chip cookies, along with German rouladen, red cabbage, and spaetzles.

Ecker served her country for the U.S.O in World War II. She began writing letters to a serviceman named Herb. When Herb Ecker came home on leave for the first time, the two met in person. Just 10 days later they were engaged.

The Eckers moved to Chatham Township in 1951, where Ann was a member of the Chatham Township Women’s Club for more than 30 years. In her free time, Ecker was an avid baseball fan, following the Newark Bears, Brookly Dodgers, and eventually committing her allegiance to the New York Mets.

Ecker is predeceased by her husband, Herb, of 50 years, and one son. She is survived by one son, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at William A. Bradley & Son Funeral Home, 345 Main Street in Chatham. A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 20 at the funeral home.

Memorial donations can be made to St. Labre Indian School, Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of choice.