Durward 'Allen' Ekas, 69

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Durward "Allen" Ekas, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2009, while resting comfortably in his home after a six year battle with cancer. He was 69. He was born Jan. 17, 1940, in Warren, Ohio, to Freda Wedman Ekas and Virden Samuel Ekas. Originally from Dover, Del., Allen moved to Virginia Beach to be closer to his daughter, Kristina, and granddaughter, Renee' in 2003. Allen was an avid sports enthusiast and loved watching the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia Phillies, and NASCAR. In recent years her enjoyed spending time relaxing with is dogs, Snowball and Anika. Prior to retiring Allen worked as an independent over the road truck driver. Allen was preceded in death by his wife of 26 years, Wanda and his parents. He is survived by two daughters, Kristina M. Ekas of Virginia Beach and Debra L. Kennedy and spouse Jim Kennedy of Placentia, Calif.; one son, Joel P. Ekas and spouse Kimberly of Dover, Del.; seven grandchildren, Renee' Ekas-Stranahan of Virginia Beach, Sarah and William Moraitis of Manhattan Beach, Calif., Samuel Ekas of Easton, Md., Sebastian and Nathaniel Ekas of Wilkes Barre, Pa.; and Benjamin Ekas of Dover, Del.; one brother, Douglas Ekas and spouse Jane Ekas of Phoenix, Ariz.; one sister, Julie Milburn of Yorba Linda, Calif.; and he is further survived by nieces, nephews, and many friends. We would also like to thank close family friends John Stranahan and Netanel Shmila and all the staff of Sentara Hospice for their kindness, help, and support during his illness.