Ilse Anna Elizabeth (Balke) Eichler

Ilse Anna Elizabeth Eichler entered Heaven’s gates on Monday, March 27, 2017, at the age of 87, after succumbing to the effects of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). She was born Sept. 7, 1929, in Langenbielau, Germany, to Ernst and Gertrud Balke. The family moved to Bavaria in 1945, after being forced to leave their hometown at the end of World War II. Ilse immigrated to Canada in 1955, and later to the U.S. in 1964 with her family.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, Walter R. Eichler, and loving sons Thomas Eichler and Richard Eichler. She was also the loving grandmother of Laurel Ealy and Rayna Eichler, and was looking forward to beoming a first-time great-grandmother later this year. She is also survived by two older brothers, Guenther Balke and Ernst Balke, and nieces and nephews who reside in Germany.

Ilse was an active and devoted member of Faith Lutheran Church for more than three decades, serving in such capacities as Choir Director, and member of the Worship Committee, Women’s Bible Study and Book Club. She was also well-known for applying her many creative and artistic talents to the glory of God. She was responsible for so many beautiful creations and floral arrangements, decorating the church lovingly for each Christian holiday.

Her memorial will be presided over by longtime friend Pastor Alan Piotter. A reception directly following the service will be hosted by her dear friends of the church.

Known for her compassion and big heart, she was always thinking of others before herself. Throughout her life, family was the dominant, ever important factor. She was a devoted and wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother – constant and unfaltering – the cornerstone of her family, inspired by her Christian faith.

Ilse also loved nature, animals, gardening, flowers, and her many dear friends, and will be remembered for her good and positive nature and wonderful smile. She will be sorely missed by many.

The memorial service will be held at her beloved faith Lutheran Church, 19355 Arnold Dr., Sonoma, on Saturday, April 22, at 1:30 p.m.

Friends and famiy who so desire are encouraged to remember Ilse with lovely bouquets in her memory or contributions to Faith Lutheran or their charity of choice.

 Service Information