Margaret Bulman Eckerberg Obituary: Gering Community Mourns

For many people in Gering, Margaret Bulman Eckerberg was a familiar and welcoming face. Her years as a secretary at Gering High School, along with her extensive volunteer work, church involvement and dedication to her family, made her a person whose presence reached well beyond her workplace.

Margaret’s death has left behind her husband, five children, relatives, friends, former colleagues and many others who came to know her through the Gering community.

A Familiar Face at Gering High School

Margaret spent years serving as a Building Secretary at Gering High School, becoming part of the everyday rhythm of the school.

Her role brought her into contact with students, parents, staff members and visitors. Over time, those ordinary interactions became lasting connections, and her presence became familiar to generations of people associated with the school.

The kindness and warmth attributed to Margaret were qualities that extended beyond her professional responsibilities. For those who knew her at Gering High School, she was part of the community that helped make the school feel welcoming.

34 Years of Marriage and a Family of Five

Away from school, Margaret’s greatest commitments centered on her family.

She and her husband, Philip Eckerberg, shared 34 years of marriage and raised five children together—four daughters and one son.

Margaret was also part of a longtime Gering family. Her parents, Thornton and Viola Bulman, were members of the local community, and family records have identified Margaret among their children.

The family she built with Philip and the memories created throughout those years remain an important part of the story of her life.

Service That Extended Throughout Gering

Margaret’s willingness to volunteer was evident in many corners of the community.

She and Philip spent years operating the police officers’ concession stand at the Scotts Bluff County Fair, contributing their time to an effort associated with local law enforcement fundraising.

Her volunteer work also included concession activities at Gering High School and helping prepare food for church and community events.

Margaret was involved with the Horizon Christian Music Festival, where she served as a team leader for the festival concession stand. Her responsibilities required practical work behind the scenes, helping ensure that the concession operation continued smoothly.

Food, Fellowship and Helping Others

Cooking became another way Margaret contributed to the people around her.

She prepared meals for church gatherings, benefits and other community occasions. She also helped with receptions and funeral dinners at her church and provided food for Bible study gatherings.

These acts may have seemed ordinary at the time, but they reflected a consistent pattern in Margaret’s life: when there was work to be done or people who needed help, she was willing to step in.

Her service was often expressed through practical gestures—preparing food, organizing activities, volunteering her time and helping others get things done.

A Sudden Illness

Margaret’s final weeks were marked by a rapid illness.

According to the available accounts, she experienced a battle with liver cancer lasting less than four weeks before her death. The short period between the reported diagnosis or onset of the illness and her passing made the loss particularly difficult for those closest to her.

Further details about her medical care and final days have not been publicly provided in the information available.

The Many Places Margaret Left Her Mark

Margaret’s life connected her to several parts of Gering.

At Gering High School, she was known through her work as a building secretary. At the Scotts Bluff County Fair, church gatherings and community events, she was among those willing to volunteer. At home, she was a wife and mother who shared 34 years of marriage with Philip and raised five children.

Those different roles tell a broader story of someone whose contribution was often found in everyday acts of service.

For family, former colleagues, friends and members of the community, memories of Margaret will remain connected to the places and people she spent so many years supporting.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Funeral, visitation and celebration-of-life arrangements for Margaret Bulman Eckerberg were not confirmed in the information provided.

The family or funeral provider may release additional information regarding services and memorial arrangements when details are finalized.

As Gering remembers Margaret, her legacy is reflected in the family she loved, the school community she served and the many volunteer efforts to which she gave her time. Her years of quiet service and willingness to help others remain central to how those who knew her remember her.