Robert J. Eckert, 84, of Mercer, died unexpectedly Monday, Oct. 23, 2017, in his home.      He was born May 14, 1933, in Milwaukee, son of the late Robert A. and Isabelle (Westenberger) Eckert, and graduated from Mercer High School in 1950. He attended Wisconsin State Teacher's College in Superior (UW Wisconsin-Superior)and received a teaching degree before enlisting in the U.S. Army and serving stateside for two years.      Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Bob began teaching in Barron, Wis., then returned to the UW Wisconsin-Superior where he received a Master's degree in administration. He then served as principal at Barron Double Elementary School and in Lac du Flambeau until his retirement. In retirement, he owned and operated the Musky Queen Drive-In in St. Germain.      Bob was a member of St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church in Mercer, Mercer-Manitowish Waters American Legion Post 424 and the Mercer Lions Club. He enjoyed pheasant hunting in South Dakota and mule deer hunting out West.      Surviving are a brother, Tom (Jean), Woodruff; nieces and nephews, Chrissy Samardich, Mark (Sue) Samardich, David Samardich, Jon (Leanna) Samardich, Paul (Nikki) Samardich, Michael (Heather) Eckert, Beth (Mark) Johnson, Michael (Audrey) Johnson and Bryan (Cristina) Johnson; and numerous great nieces and nephews.      In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Ann Samardich; and niece, Lori Eckert.      A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Oct. 30, at 11 a.m., at St. Isaac Jogues Church in Mercer, with Father Ron Serrao, celebrant.      Rite of Committal will take place at the church, with luncheon to follow in the parish hall.      Entombment will be in the Mercer Cemetery.      Relatives and friends may call at the church from 10:30 to 11 a.m. on Monday.      Arrangements have been entrusted to McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home Inc., Ironwood, Mich. Condolences may be expressed online at mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.