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1933-2023
Richard W. Eck, 90, of Hanoverton, Ohio, and formerly of Waterford, Pa., passed away at his home on June 7, 2023 surrounded by family.
Everyone who met Richard knew they were in the presence of a unique and unforgettable individual. His strength, uncompromising values and mechanical ingenuity were legendary.
Richard was born to Maebelle and Oscar Eck in Waterford, Pa., Jan. 30, 1933. He attended Sacred Heart Elementary School where he sang in the choir. He was a proud alumni of Cathedral Prep, Class of 1951. He often gathered with former classmates reminiscing about their school days.
After serving in the Korean War, he went to work at Lord Manufacturing Company. He holds the record for his work of 55 years and was instrumental in the development of innovative designs for presses including the KENT press for which he received numerous commendations. He amazed many of the engineers with his ideas for designs, having taught himself CAD. His mechanical engineering abilities extended to his work at home where he could literally fix anything.
Richard married Patricia Marie Leuschen Messenger on Nov. 5, 1977. They had a blended family of six daughters, Barbara Eck Duchini (Frank), Darlene Haddix (Jon), Bobbi Pace (Randy), Debbie Vannucci who predeceased him, Karen Messenger (David) and Traci Messenger (Mark).
Richard leaves to honor his memory many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. He was a strong and supportive father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was our rock.
In addition to his work at Lord Manufacturing, he was a dairy and beef cattle farmer and a horse trainer extraordinaire. He truly was a horse whisperer and could train horses that others said were unbreakable. Richard was a member of the Erie County Sheriff's Posse. Richard would often be seen in his western hat, suit and cowboy boots. He loved John Wayne and they bore many similarities.
Richard donated his body to Cleveland Clinic's Cadaver Donation Program. The Cleveland Clinic said his noble donation could help to save lives and help prepare future doctors.
Richard was a Roman Catholic. His faith in God helped him through many of life's ordeals. Memorial Masses are planned at St. Paul's RC Church in Salem, Ohio, on Wednesday, June 14 at 10 a.m. and at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie, Pa., on Friday, June 23 at 10 a.m.
Donations can be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Richard's memory at 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.
"Richard Eck, over and out."
6/9/23