Jeris Gene Eikenberry

Jeris Gene Eikenberry, 89, of West Lafayette, passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026.  He was born November 2, 1936, in Bringhurst, IN, to L. Delbert and Vera (Black) Eikenberry.

Jeris graduated from Flora High School and received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Agriculture from Purdue University. After completing ROTC, he was commissioned in the US Army, served active duty at Ft. Eustis, VA and 28 years in the Army Reserves, and retired at the rank of Lt. Colonel.

On June 1, 1958, he married Joyce Ann Miller from Camden, IN. Together, they put down deep roots in West Lafayette, reared two children, Dave and Beth Ann, and were very involved in the community, living in their home for 61 years. They were blessed by 68 years of devoted marriage.

Jeris was committed to his faith in Jesus Christ and His church. He was a long time member and elder at Covenant Presbyterian Church in West Lafayette. He served over 60 years in Kiwanis, receiving many awards. He was an integral part of the Ag Alumni Association, and enjoyed playing parlor piano in the Pioneer Building at the Indiana State Fair. He was a proud member of the John Purdue Club and an enthusiastic Boilermaker. Jeris was always willing to share his God-given musical gift freely. He was a talented piano player, and so many people in the community enjoyed hearing him play.

Jeris enjoyed a distinguished career as the Feed Administrator for Office of Indiana State Chemist at Purdue University for 36 years. He was very active in the Association for American Feed Control Officials, as past president, on the board of directors and as a life member. After retiring in 1999, he continued to consult in several venues, including several trips to Russia and China. He is a recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash award, the Commissioner Special Citation and the Harvey W. Wiley Medal, and was inducted into the Carroll County Agricultural Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Ann Eikenberry of West Lafayette, IN, their son, David (Kathleen) Eikenberry of Winthrop Harbor, IL and a brother, Cullan Eikenberry of Flora, IN, and five grandchildren and five great grandchildren

Jeris was preceded in death by an infant son, Robert Eikenberry, and by his beloved daughter, Beth Ann Swinson, who died just last June 9 (see her own obituary). A memorial service will be held for them both at 1:00 pm on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Covenant Church, 211 Knox Dr. West Lafayette, IN 47906 with a reception to follow at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Oasis Community (www.oasisforlife.org).

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