Herman Christian Eichmeier, Jr., affectionately known as Chris, born on June 2, 1943, in Portland, Oregon, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on December 16, 2023, at the Iowa City VA Medical Center. Friends and family will be gathering at Pape Funeral Home in Clinton, Iowa Saturday April 27th at 10am with service at 11am, interment at 12pm, and 1pm lunch at Zion Lutheran.
Chris often reminisced about his childhood in Ray, North Dakota and summer adventures in Saskatchewan, Canada. In 1961, he graduated high school, answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Army serving honorably until 1964. After his service he continued his education earning a Speech and Communication degree from University of North Dakota and a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Chris’ passion for communication and education led him to a fulfilling career. From 1969 to 2008, he taught at Iowa State University, Morningside College and Clinton Community College. At Clinton Community College, Chris was both an educator and a leader for over 30 years. Chris’ memory lives on as many students recall his classroom teaching methods, which often included standing on a desk and yelling to emphasize a key learning point, though often followed by much class participation and laughter. He always managed to take his role as an educator very seriously while never taking himself too seriously. During his time teaching at CCC, he took great pride in serving as the Communication Department Chair, the President of the Great River Bend Education Association and President of the Eastern Iowa Community College Faculty Association.
Baptized into the Lutheran faith, Chris’ faith played a central role in his life. He was a dedicated member of Zion Lutheran Church in Clinton for over 40 years and supported the church as a Sunday School teacher, usher, and on several committees.
Chris was a devoted member of the Masonic Consistory for nearly six decades. His contributions were vast: past Master of Lyons Lodge #93, Regional Representative for the Inspector General of Iowa, Member in Good Standing of the Wheel Horse Brigade and a respected figure within the Clinton Scottish Rite and Clinton York Rite. His dedication culminated in the prestigious 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary.
Chris cherished his family and friends. He leaves behind a loving legacy, survived by: children: Jeffrey (Kristine) Gross, Melyssa (Kelly) Evanson, Christine (Michael) Studzinski, and Jesse Oster; grandchildren: Hunter Evanson (Shelby), Forrest Evanson, Colten Evanson, Easton Gross, and Caroline Gross; brother: Kurt (Marla) Eichmeier; nieces and nephews: Jennifer Gatherers, Megan Hudson, Bryce Eichmeier.
Herman Christian Eichmeier, Jr., will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his colleagues, friends and family, his love for carpentry, and the joy he found in simple pleasures like coffee and breakfast with “the boys.” In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Lyon’s Lodge #93, Zion Lutheran, or the National Kidney Foundation in Chris’ memory.