Richard Eckel Obituary

Although we hadn´t seen each other in years, Dick remained an important part of my life. Many years ago, whenever I came home to be with my family during the holidays, he was always one of the first people I called. He ministered to many people and was truly a force for good. His kindness and presence made a difference to so many. I will always be grateful for the friendship and shared.

Father Eckel was a father/brother to me when I was lacking both in high school. He encouraged me to follow my path through literature, religion, music, poetry. He drove my opel car home from Cleveland after I drove us to a Moody Blues concert in the late 1960's. It was pouring down a drenching rain, suddenly, and I was a young driver trying to make sure we were safe. Fr. Eckel took the wheel for us and gave me back the keys when we got home. "and so, as the Miller told his tale, her face first white, turned a whiter shade of pale"--Procol Harum via The Moody Blues, Loveley to See You, My Friend!"

Rest in Peace, Father Eckel.

I met Fr. Eckel many, many years ago. He inspired folks just by his presence. He was committed to helping folks thru rough times. May his soul be at peace.

Fr Eckel was one in a million who was loved and respected by so many, young and old alike. Times spent with those of us, who were then students at St Mary´s in Sandusky, are memories never to be forgotten. Whether at mass, in the classroom, or just hanging out and sharing good times and laughs, he had such profound positive influences on many lives. He married my husband and I over 54 years ago and we still talk about what he said to us in those pre-marital classes and how grateful we were for his thoughts and blessings. May he be resting peacefully in God´s kingdom. Our deepest condolences to his family. John and Mary Ann Hotz

REST IN PEACE FATHER ECKEL

Richard was an amazing man of God to me and my family. We go back 55 years ago when I met Father Eckel at my Dad's funeral. Richard married me and my husban Dan. I know that Richard touched the hearts of many,many people. My condolences to his wife Patricia and Chelsea and Zachary. In God's love to this beautiful family,Janet Brian-Schardt

May God give Dick a share with God's People, as promised by the Risen Lord Jesus Christ. I not only have ancient memories from our time in seminary, but more recent memories of Dick attending Mass with his mother at St Aloysius Bowling Green. He always like to stir the pot, kept things interesting
May God bless all the Eckels and all Dick's family
Fr Ed Schleter

I remember the days of Dick's ministry here in Sandusky. He did a lot of good and reached out to people in ways that others couldn't. An 'out of the box' thinker, for sure. And I believe many were blessed because of that. I'm grateful for all the good he did.

Father Eckel was well known in the 60' s and 70's. He attended may gatherings of young people during this Era as a priest, friend, adviser and all around person. When he left the parish he was followed by many people of may faiths. He was well liked and sought by many. He was a kind soul. My heart goes out to his family, children and friends. A very understanding man.