James Dean "IKE" Eichmiller's Obituary
James Dean “Ike” Eichmiller, age 52, passed away Friday, August 19, 2022 at his home in Hayward, California after a courageous battle with brain tumor.
He was born December 14, 1969 in Bellevue, Nebraska to Frederick Eichmiller and Juliet Draheim. James attended Loogootee High School and graduated from Vincennes University. After college, he accepted a job and relocated to California where he eventually met Marie Jean Penacerrada. The couple was married on August 3, 2002 and have two children, Raisa and Kayla Eichmiller.
James was a wonderful, caring husband and father. Spending time with his family was always a priority. He loved maps, lasers and was passionate about learning, and constantly strived to be the best version of himself. James was also a man of faith. He joined the Curcillio in 2015 and became a member of All Saints Catholic Church in 2018. In his free time, James enjoyed gardening and watching IU Basketball, the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors. He loved food and breaking bread with loved ones. He had an infectious laugh that will be missed by everyone.
James is survived by his wife of 20 years, Marie Jean; his daughters, Raisa and Kayla; his father, Frederick and mother, Juliet; his siblings Kurt and Sandra (Kelly) LaMar; nieces, Tracie (TJ) McAtee, Breigh LaMar of Loogootee, IN and Abby Eichmiller of Evansville, IN; nephew, Wade (Jessenia) LaMar of Columbus, IN; great nieces and great nephews; step-sister Tara (Weldon) McPherson and step-brothers Troy Pearson and Travis Pearson; his father-in-law and mother-in-law Alberto and Lillian, the Peñacerrada, Llemos, Ramos, Gatbonton, De Jesus and Bulos families in California.
James was preceded in death by his stepmom, Pauletta Eichmiller, and his sister-law, Cecilia Ramos, who both loved him dearly.
Family and friends will attend the Final Viewing after the Mass and a Procession to Chapel of the Chimes Memorial Park, 32992 Mission Blvd., Hayward, CA 94544 will follow.
What’s your fondest memory of James Dean?
What’s a lesson you learned from James Dean?
Share a story where James Dean's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James Dean you’ll never forget.
How did James Dean make you smile?