OSHAWA'S 'FIRST LADY OF THE FIDDLE' HAS DIED

MARGUERITE "JUNE" EIKHARD WAS 90

Oshawa's 'First Lady of the Fiddle' has died.

Marguerite "June" Eikhard died on Feb. 19 at Lakeridge Health Oshawa at the age of 90.

Eikhard moved to Oshawa from the

Maritimes in the 1960s with her husband Cecil, who was working as a TV repairman, and her two children, Brent and Shirley.

According to Eikhard's obituary, the entire family was musical, with June described as "a tremendously talented fiddle player" who was able to play all stringed instruments, as well as the piano and drums. She played as a band member on the fiddle with many excursions to the U.S.A.

"She will be remembered for her great sense of humour, her unforgettable laugh and her musical expertise. She was a friend to everyone and helped anyone in need. Yes, the First Lady of the Fiddle and Country Music has gone from us but she will never be forgotten," said the obituary.

Eikhard was predeceased by her husband Cecil, son Brent, later partner Roy Witty, grandson Jamie Vandenbogaard and daughter Shirley.

An interment of cremated remains was held at Oshawa Union Cemetery on March 7.

A Celebration of Life for Eikhard will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #43 (471 Simcoe St. South in Oshawa) on Saturday, April 1, beginning at 1:30 p.m.

For online condolences, visit www.armstrongfh.ca.