Echoe Dawn Deibert

Echoe was born on January 8, 1936 in Munising, MI to Alton H. and Ramona L. (Kjellin) Deibert. She was a graduate of William G. Mather High School and Western Michigan University.

Echoe worked for Bellevue Schools in lower Michigan as a biology teacher then returned to Munising and worked for the Munising Paper Mill doing various jobs.

Echoe was very connected to her faith, studying and teaching the word of God. She loved camping, walking and being in nature and the outdoors as a whole. Echoe also enjoyed researching history, people and local environments, she used her building skills in Missionary work in Guatemala helping rebuild homes affected by an earthquake. Echoe opened up her home after getting back in the states to fellow missionary, Shirley, and her adopted daughter, Cristi, who then shared all the beautiful UP experiences here. She had a strong compassion and admiration for African Americans and our Native Americans who have contributed so much to this country.

Echoe was a published author, her works included poetry like “The Momma Poems” and “Poems for the Children of the King”. Echoe was very honored to be part of the Center for Native American Studies through Northern Michigan University, in helping put together “Voice on the Water. Great Lakes America Now.,” Stories and poems of contemporary American Indians living in Michigan.

Echoe is survived by her foster daughter, Cristi (Robert) Clary; sister, Blanche Brown; niece, Brenda Abbott; nephew, Brad Brown; cousin, Willis McFarlin; special friends, Colleen Roberts and Carol (Harlan) Belmore; and many others she enjoyed meeting along the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alton and Ramona; and two brothers, Starr G. “Barney” Deibert and Alton W. “Sonny” Deibert.

A graveside service for Echoe will take place in the spring of 2024 at Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Echoe’s name to the Norlite Nursing Center, 701 Homestead St., Marquette, MI 49855, the Center for Native American Studies, Northern Michigan University, 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette, MI 49855 or one of your local writers groups.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting Echoe’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.