Jerome J. "Jerry" Eckroate, age 86, passed away Saturday morning in the Canton Christian Home. Born in Canton to the late Jerome A. and Katherine (Arnold) Eckroate, he was a life resident. Jerry was an Army Veteran having served in Korea. He had also been on the Avondale Fire Department, was a great carpenter, building many homes with Joseph Sigler as a young man, as well as many homes he built for his family. He retired from Fisher Foods after 30 years as their maintenance person. Following retirement he enjoyed golfing and volunteering at the soup kitchen. His most important priority over the years was always taking care of and being there for his family. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son, Jay Eckroate, in 1982. Survivors include his wife of over 65 years, Helen M. (Pullin) Eckroate; two daughters, Debbie (Mark) Stephens and Chari (Bill) Reno; granddaughters, Cari Reno, Kelly Reno and Jessica Stephens; great grandson, Maddux. Funeral service will be 1:00 P.M. Wednesday in the Chapel of the Canton Christian Home. Interment will be in Forest Hill Cemetery. Friends may call on Tuesday from 6 to 8 P.M. in the Spiker-Foster-Shriver Funeral Home 4817 Cleveland Ave., N.W. and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to your church or a charity of your choice. Please sign the guest book.