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Skip Eckert Obituary
He was the man who showed up on Christmas wearing a Spiderman costume and webbing family with silly string. The guy who put his daughter, nieces and nephews on his shoulders and jumped into the swimming pool. Over and over and over. The one who showed up to his Goddaughter's wedding in a tuxedo T-shirt. Skip Eckert was also arguably the world's best safecracker, who once saved the life of a child locked in a bank vault. Above all, though, he was a devoted husband who worshipped his wife, Connie, and a doting father who taught his precious Riley to scuba dive and took her across the globe to do it.
Eckert, 62, of Medina, passed away unexpectedly over the weekend. But the loving husband, gentle father, compassionate son, hilarious brother, crazy uncle, generous friend and clever genius most certainly lives on. He is, after all, our best party story, our favorite jokester, our tallest yet truest tale. Skip was the president of his class at Manchester High School (class of '69), who he represented at the state championship wrestling tournament (he also legendarily cut off his own leg cast; he had things to do, after all, and wasn't about to let that stop him.) He graduated from Baldwin Wallace in 1973 and quickly turned his locksmithing interest into a career. Skip was a Master Safe Cracker who traveled the world, from South Korea to Saudi Arabia, to open safes and vaults. He was honored in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's fastest safecracker. He appeared on David Letterman to showcase his prowess. He worked for the FBI, Scotland Yard and Quantico, among others. And when a child was locked in a bank vault in Pennsylvania, it was Skip who police escorted across state lines to save a life, making national news. He was a longtime president of the Safe and Vault Technicians Association, and is in the group's hall of fame. This year, he was given the Philadelphia Award--the locksmith industry's most prestigious honor (he may or may not have also used his locksmithing skills to occasionally break into other family members' rooms on family vacations and booby trap doors).
He was also a pilot, an accomplished scuba diver, a guitarist, a member of the Medina Police Specials Unit, a mason at Akron-Coventry Masonic Lodge 83, and a gymnastics coach who trained Olympic-caliber athletes. And what was that--you needed something? Skip had your back, no favor too big, no questions asked.
He is being ushered into his next life by his mother, Joanne, and leaves behind his father, Walter; wife, Connie; daughter, Riley Joanne; son, Tyler; sister, Anne (Gary) Cole; brother, Don (Diane); brother, Bobby (Kim); and several nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Whether you knew Skip or not, we're certain he would prefer that you honor him not with flowers or tears, but by watching a Monty Python movie, listening to The Beatles, rigging your brother's toilet seat or building a fort in the living room for your kid (and if you're coming to memorialize him, he'd be pleased to see you in flannel shirt and jeans, thank you).
Skip's mother always said, "Leave wherever you are a better place than you found it."
And to that end, Skip cracked the ultimate code: life.
A Memorial Service will be held for Skip on Saturday, October 26 at 11 a.m. at the Tadmor Shrine, 3000 Krebs Dr., Akron, OH 44319. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice in Skip's name. Online condolences may be left at www.waitefuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Skip Eckert
Sponsored by Akron Beacon Journal.
Jim Hartshorne
October 18, 2023
Skip, we all miss you here on the other side but we are all a few years closer to all being in Heaven with you.
We probably need another Class of 1969 reunion and remember you as our Class President and fearless leader way back then.
See you in a few years.
Jim Hartshorne
Abe Hamed
February 10, 2023
Skip is a great man amoung so few . I first met him at a busines that I was putting together . I had purchased a safe that waslocked and needed to open . There was a sticker on it with Skip's phone number . I called and he answered . He told me that he would be there in an hour ,which he did . When he arrived he told me that it would be $xxx , I agreed then he asked me if I was going to pay him if he opened the safe . I told him of course , why do you ask ? He tapped the safe door with a hammer and it opened . We laughed about it for a minute and he put the new combo on it and left laughing . He was my hero for the day. MAY HE REST IN PEACE
Jerome Andrews
October 18, 2022
Skip's picture is just inside my front door. I still miss him every day.
Jim Hartshorne
June 23, 2019
Since Skip was our Senior Class President of the Manchester Class of 1969, this year's 50th reunion will also be a time to celebrate and remember the ones we have lost in the last 50 years.
Skip will always be at the top of my list of the guys I had the pleasure knowing especially due to our wrestling team connection. I was always lucky Skip was one or two weight classes above me because he was impossible to beat. I'm sure today Skip would chuckle at us weighing 103, 112 or 127 pounds today.
All we can do now is carry on and remember and smile a little bit when we remember the fun Skip brought to all our lives. I had to smile today when I remembered when we became true Indian blood brothers with cutting our fingers, just a little nick, and pressing them together for a few seconds, I'm proud to have even one corpuscle of Skip running thru my veins today. Happy 50th Skip, see you in a few years.
Jerome Andrews
June 21, 2019
Not all things are healed in this life.
Skipper would have been 68 on the 7th of this month. I'm sitting here in tears listening to Simon & Garfunkel singing "Old Friends." Skip loved Paul Simon's music and he would often assure me that one day we would finally have the time to sit on a park bench "like bookends." I liked locks. He opined that locks were boring. He liked safes. I thought safes were truly deadly. If ever there was an argument for following one's bliss it is manifest in our likes and dislikes.
I was deeply privileged to know a side of Franklin that he didn't often show. After a game of racquetball, during a long walk, or over a rum and coke (yuk!), we would talk about God, morality, the problem of evil, the significance of Jesus, or why the rich oppress the poor. We'd struggle with deeply personal questions. I felt honored to be trusted, I believe he felt the same. That is the Skip I miss the most.
A few days before he died, he came bouncing through my back door Tigger-like with a 100 year old Yale Lock Co. catalog in perfect condition. He knew that I appreciated and treasured such things. This was typical. It came naturally to him. He was the most generous man I ever knew. Even now, every so often, I expect to hear him honking in the driveway, demanding that I buy him coffee and a piece of pie. Lord, how much I'd like to do that now.
Finally, I would be very ungrateful if I failed to thank Connie for her kindness. Only she knows how especially generous and loving she was to me the day of Skip's memorial service.
Cleveland Girl
December 6, 2018
Skip, I didn't know you, and your obituary makes me feel like I really missed out! They say your vibe attracts your tribe! And you were one of my kind! I tell people about your obit all the time and can only hope to be remembered so fondly!
Skip playing the guitar
Annie
July 24, 2016
July 24, 2016
Jim Benear, if you have any photos of you and Skip playing the guitar together, please post them? Thanks, Annie
Skip and Dad at Dad's 90th Birthday Party, 2013. Skip died nine months later, but Dad made it to exactly 93 and one week!
July 24, 2016
Thanks, Jim, for your heartfelt thoughts. I will be seeing all of our family today at Bob & Kim's pool and will share your comments with them. Going to that pool was one of Skip's favorite things to do, so I know we will be remembering those great times as well. We lost Dad in January, so now I just have to believe that Skip is making Mom, Dad and many others laugh in heaven...And fixing the locks on The Pearly Gates! Still can't believe he is really gone; Skip was such a "force of nature." Does that feeling ever really go away? Annie
Jim Benear
July 23, 2016
I just accidentally learned of Skip's passing. He was one of the most kind and most hilarious people I have ever known. It has been many years since seeing him last. I am grateful that he did get in touch with me about seven years ago. He influenced my life more the he ever knew. My condolences to his friends and family.
Jim Benear
December 11, 2014
Annie: Thanks for the memories- pictures are always great and memories always will stay with us. We had great years growing up as kids and Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa Eckert were the best. Merry Christmas to everyone - I miss you all!
Love, your cousin Jan
Annie
December 11, 2014
Annie
December 11, 2014
Annie
December 11, 2014
Annie
December 11, 2014
Annie Eckert-Cole
December 11, 2014
Thanks, Donna. Today would have been our mother's 89th birthday. She always loved that Skip would usually show up on Christmas Day wearing a ridiculous singing hat or wearing a superhero costume. It seems appropriate to share a few photos of him like that today. Enjoy everyone! (And Skip, bet you are still making Mom laugh in heaven...)
Annie
December 11, 2014
Annie
December 11, 2014
Annie
December 11, 2014
Donna
December 10, 2014
I met Skip back in 1991 when I worked at Cuyahoga Safe & Lock as an after school job. All I can say is "What a great guy!" I'm saddened by his passing and even more saddened that I learned over a year later that he was gone. He was a great teacher and tradesman. To his family, I am very sorry for your loss. The world lost a beautiful man.
July 21, 2014
I met Skip many years ago when he ran a safe cracking course. I honestly say no one ever impressed me more. He a one off. Thoughts to his family anf friends. Mark locksmith
Dee
June 16, 2014
Skip, Thought of you this weekend when an "end of life" conversation popped up. I told a group of friends about you....and the "wonderful-ness" that you left for your friends and family to cherish forever...As I've always said..."we are making memories with everything we do!..... I didn't know you, but have never forgotten you after reading your "farewell" tribute. I intend to continue "living out loud" as you did Skip. Thank you for being such an inspiration !!Rock on Skip, Rock on!
Daniel d Smith
February 14, 2014
Skip....The Beatles had a 5oth an couldn't stop thinking about you the whole time watching the different artists celebrate them ..and when Sir Paul said ...That Boy meaning Ringo....wow...it brought tears to my eyes again how you would have loved it....your friend daniel..
Skip's sister, Annie
February 14, 2014
Neither can we, Mark. Fifteen years ago today, Skip's beloved Riley Jo was born. I can't help but believe she will have extra guidance helping Connie and Riley get through the day. Thanks again to all of you. It helps.
Mark Bates
February 13, 2014
Skip-I still can't believe you are gone. Thanks for everything you did for me and your countless friends in the industry and beyond. Rest well.
February 5, 2014
LOVE that quote, Chuck. Thanks!
Anne Eckert-Cole
Chuck Augustine
February 4, 2014
I remember Skip when he apprenticed in Cleveland and at some of the locksmith conventions. He was a truly memorable and caring person. Reminds me of the thought "Hear the music before the song is over". Rest in Peace my friend.
A Friend
January 6, 2014
Connie and family my deepest sympathies regarding your loss. I pray you find comfort in the many loving memories your husband and father has left for you. May you cherish those memories forever.
December 19, 2013
Skip..just before your passing my nephew was killed so I know how hard these holidays are feeling for your family but I am still praying for them as I am my own...May the thoughts of knowing the birth of Jesus and His life/ministry then death and rising again ..let us know my nephew and Skip are waiting for us in a better place....and so we too can still enjoy this time of the year even while feeling the those of our love ones.....God bless the Eckert family...love Daniel
Ric Bentley
December 18, 2013
I live in Dallas and just heard of Skip's passing. He was my first guitar teacher at Grecni music in 1972. I have not seen him since then but would periodically follow his career. I liked him. I always remembered him as kind and funny. my thoughts and prayers to Skip's family.
Dave Metz
November 13, 2013
Skip, I just want to say one more time THANKS, for the time you came to Chicago and held one of the best Safecracking seminars. I know everyone in attendance those two days would agree.My Prayers go out to you and your family.
Your Friend Always,
Dave M.
Jack Alsip
November 8, 2013
I never had the honor of meeting Skip, although I wish I had. I am a fellow safe enthusiast. I know just about all the safes guys except him. I wish I would have called him. A great man, very sorry for your loss-
Bob Wyman
November 4, 2013
Was blessed to have met you and now sad you have gone and you shall never be forgotten. ML&R
Mark Rankin
November 3, 2013
I recently found out about Skip's passing. I cursed an then cried. I remember a prank video he did on "Safe moving safety". He had what must have been a movie set look alike an antique Mosler. At the end of the video he talked about how you should be very careful lifting these safes and then he picked it up over his head and walked away. It was a great bit.
My deepest heartfelt sympathy for his family.
Bob Duman CML
October 31, 2013
I'm still in shock with Skip's passing. He was my friend, my mentor and collegue. I will miss him for the rest of my life. We shared some commonality with our government contacts and spoke often about our work. I will cherish our talks as well as his assistance to our Lock & Safe company. He was a giant among men in the Safe Industry and a great collegue for the Law Enforcement community. I wish I could have been at the memorial but I was away in South Florida on business at the time. Rest in Peace brother and God Bless You and your family.
Sandy Guzowski-Supler
October 31, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Connie and your family. Although I haven't seen Skip in many years, I have great memories of him as my coach at North Olmsted. In fact Don and Connie both coached me, too.
He was a fantastic coach and a great guy. He will be missed.
Ian Greene
October 30, 2013
Skip, You will be missed by so many and we're all grateful for your gracious generosity.
My prayers go out for your family.
Jimmy Arthur
October 29, 2013
Didnt know Skip like many of you but could tell from the times I spoke with him and the one time I was actually able to meet him that he was a down to earth good hearted person. He will missed by many. God bless
Phil Shearer
October 29, 2013
Skip, your friendship and positive impact on my life and many others will never be forgotten. You changed this world forever, I will always remember you, Phil
mikayla scarpino
October 28, 2013
I'm sorry for your loss and he will be missed, he was an amazing and funny person and I'm praying for Skips family and he was a great gymnastics coach! He'll always be remembered!
-Mikayla Scarpino
(Gymnast trained by Skip at Powerhouse Gym in Wadsworth)
Bill Johnson
October 28, 2013
Skip, so many days have passed, and the words are still clogged in the brain. Thank you for being SAVTA, and the time you spent helping me. And to Connie, Skip was the least selfish man I have ever known, you have been blessed having lived with him more than any of us can speak. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.
October 28, 2013
Skip...wow..my friend...your life was truly honored by your family...(thanks for the photo gallery)..your friends and strangers..(all the comments) ..and then .the people (450 +++) my tears are of joy that you my friend were so loved and gave love....Awesome.....daniel
Mike Pitman
October 27, 2013
Rest in peace good friend.
judy jared
October 27, 2013
my prayers and condolences to the Eckert family
Jeff, Steven and Skip at the Cabin in Canada
Oneys
October 27, 2013
Skip, Manchester High School years
Oneys
October 27, 2013
Skip in Manchester, High school years
Oneys
October 27, 2013
Annie Eckert-Cole
October 27, 2013
Thank you to all for the many wonderful, thoughtful, often funny (sooo Skip) memories and wishes you have shared. We are printing them as they appear for our father, since he did not "inherit" Skip's computer abilities! So many of your entries have come from all over the country; reminds us that Skip's loss is not just ours. We may not have known you like some of the more familiar Manchester and Medina people, but please know you are no less appreciated. We had seats for 450 people at the memorial service yesterday and we were still about a hundred short! We apologize to the faithful who stood through a long, heartfelt memorial celebration (seems like many reunions were taking place all over the room) and wish we each could have met with you individually. (We are also well-aware that Skip would have long checked-out to go have a rum & coke in the parking lot with many of you instead...) Special thanks to the FBI for their meaningful recognition and to the speakers from all over the world. Many of you traveled so far... Today we begin the long road through a world which is less fun, but no less valued. Because we knew and loved Skip.
Skip and Dad, January 2012 at Dad's 90th Birthday
Annie
October 27, 2013
At a SAVTA convention - Jay Long, Skip and Carl Cloud
Jay Long
October 27, 2013
Skip would always stop by to say hello at the conventions we attended and he never failed to lift my spirits. He was an excellent leader as evidenced by his long tenure as President of the Safe and Vault Technicians Association.
He will be missed by hundreds of his fellow safe-techs at our on-line Safe-Tech forum where Skip was a lifetime member. It is from that community I wish to extend our sincerest heartfelt condolences to Skip's family and friends. Our only regret is that we couldn't ALL be there for Skip's memorial service.
We'll be missing you like crazy Skip!
October 26, 2013
Some special words to the Eckert family.
To Riley- When working with Skip he tried to schedule his work
so that he could pick you up after school. This was something that was important to him.
I hope that you can hold on to that through these days to come and can cherish it.
To Travis- You won Skip's lasting respect when he was sure that you were bored beyond belief but never complained during the trip to Disney World. When Skip shared his concern about being able to teach you his trade I could only reply that he would have let you find your own way in this world. It was his deep love for you that could let you go.
To Connie- What kind of woman could let her man leave and not know for sure what day he would come back- only that he would. Free to teach and share with us his knowledge and to be free to spend countless at home to explore and perfect techniques. This is a very special woman that shared her husband with the world!
It was rare that we would cross paths often and speak many words but I know these things to be true. Thanks for sharing one more day with us today.
Ronald Betschman CML
James Unsworth
October 26, 2013
My sympathies to Skips family, my impressions of Skip were a generous man, modest about his talents and liberal with encouragement to others. We shared a passion for guitars and safecracking.
Curtis Kramer
October 26, 2013
Wish I could of been there. My thoughts and prayers go to the family. I've always hoped to Skip.
Chatham 2003
Annie Oney
October 26, 2013
October 26, 2013
Jusat got back home from your service, Skip. You would have been proud to see all were was there. I thought I knew all about you, But I learned a lot more. It was an honor to have known you and to have worked with you. Tony Ramunno
Chatham 2003 Skip and family, Lloyds, Oneys
Annie Oney
October 26, 2013
Frank Manning
October 26, 2013
A giant in his chosen profession,while I met him only once,he was an inspiration to everyone who knew of him,please accept my condolences ,Frank Manning
Jeff Gater
October 26, 2013
An entire world industry mourns the loss of Skip, but our hearts cannot ache like those who were closest to him. May the God who understands the broken heart comfort you and your family in your sudden and shocking loss.
Mary May
October 26, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Don Myers
October 26, 2013
thank you skip for your knowledge and for your motivation, i never got to meet you in person, but from the messages and conversations we've had, and from stories shared i feel like I've known you forever, im praying for you, your family and your friends, gods speed my friend.
Stephan Legault
October 26, 2013
Just can't beleive it...what a shock. So young and so full of life. Left Clearstar for a few months and the very first news I get coming back is this bomb. I can't say I was in Skip close circle but I envy Schearer, Mercer, Potter, Bates, McOmie and a whole lot more who shared great stories with this Giant. He was...still is...a beacon in this industry and I am sure in the other faces of his life. He will be greatly missed...by sooo many of us. RIP my friend. We will meet again and you can tell us what kind of pranks you pulled up there.
October 26, 2013
I don't know Skip at all, but wish I did. Sounds like an awesome, awesome guy. Sorry for your loss...you were blessed to have known him
October 26, 2013
I met Skip back in the late 80s. I worked with him and learned from him many times. I am truly honored to have had the time with him. God bless you Skip' Tony Ramunno, Youngstown Ohio
October 26, 2013
My condolences to the entire Eckert family, a family who truly has made Manchester a better place to live, love and enjoy life.
I know so many heart felt prayers from the entire community are with each of you.
Becky (Breitenstine) Brainard, Class of 69
John Soderland
October 26, 2013
Words cannot express how much Skip will be missed. When I first heard, it felt like this could not be true, as if it must be a part of another one of his elabroate practical jokes. When reality set in, so did the sadness. Skip will always be with us through his legacy of kindness. He was a good and gentle man, a good friend, and a brother master mason. Well done Hiram, you have made your maker proud.
Jim Biss
October 26, 2013
So sorry to hear of the passing of Skip. I was fortunate to have him and many delightful members of the Eckert family as students at MHS. He was a fascinating and fun individual even during those early high school times.
Years later I had to call upon him to open a safe I had bought at auction. No treasures were found, but I'm sure he found it satisfying to be able to demonstrate his skills at "legitimate safecracking" to his former teacher.
May God bring comfort to his wife and children, father, brothers and sister, and all the Eckert family and friends, and in times to come bring to mind the joy of positive memories of his life.
Anne Eckert-Cole
October 25, 2013
Skip's niece (Bob and Kim's daughter), Kristy Eckert, wrote his lovely obituary, as she did our mother's. Kristy is a gifted journalist with the Columbus Dispatch. She captured Skip's essence beautifully.
October 25, 2013
Saute one chopped onion and place in a casserole dish. Add one can warm cream of mushroom soup mixed with 1/2 cup milk . Add one can drained tuna. Stir in 2 cups of cooked noodles. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes. Top with butter toasted breadcrumbs and bake until bubbly and golden.
Happy Trails my friend....
Shoe Boots a.k.a. Sue Booth
Charlotte, NC
Mike Gambill
October 25, 2013
I'm saddened for your loss. Skip was a jewel to all of us.
Gene Gyure
October 25, 2013
My heartfelt condolences to Skip's family.
Until we meet again, dear friend and brother, until we meet again...
Bill Boughman
October 25, 2013
Please accept mo deepest and sincerest condolences to Skip's family and many, many friends worldwide. The physical world has lost a damn good man. I am blessed to have known Skip.
Bill Boughman
BB Locksmith
Naples, FL
Mark Swetland
October 25, 2013
To an incredible artist who has helped and changed the lives of so many including myself. I want to say thank you as many times as there are stars in the heavens.
The world paused...rotating for a moment when you left. You will never be forgotten and your inspiration will always continue as the ripples in a pond cover the entire waters.
Its hard to say good bye my friend.
Craig Toocheck
October 25, 2013
My sympathy goes out to family and friends. We cherish his memory here. Godspeed, Bro. Eckert.
Max Salz
October 25, 2013
Dear Connie and Family,
I am sorry for your sudden loss.
I know I don't have to tell you what a giant figure Skip was in many peoples' lives. There are those who have been touched directly by his goodness and are thankful for his presence. There are many more who are unaware of his contributions to his his country.
It was a delight to have such a positive person as a friend. He will be sorely missed.
I extend my sympathies and condolences at this most difficult time.
Aloha,
Max Salz
Michael Potter
October 25, 2013
You'll Be Greatly Missed, It was always a great time traveling with you opening safes and vaults, I Miss Ya Buddy!
john rea
October 25, 2013
The words will never be enough.
Skip we will miss you.
Jan Kehn
October 25, 2013
Dear Connie and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours at this sad, sad time. Our sympathies and condolences.
Jan and Denny Kehn
tad wigal
October 25, 2013
thank you super skip for letting me know you and being an inspiration and a mentor to many. RIP
Mason Sisler
October 25, 2013
I was so sorry to hear about Skip's death, so many memories of someone so special. Skip was a good friend, who like Mark has said would be right there to do anything and everything needed at the time. My sympathies go out to Connie and the rest of the family. Life has brought me out to the mountains of Colorado, and therefore out of touch with most of my former 1969 graduates. As Steve had said, we had a lot of good times together, lots of laughs, and a brotherhood among us. To add to the memories I remember that to impress a girl who worked at the fruit market next to the home that I grew up in dressed himself in a suit adorned with vegetables and fruit, along with a cape and called himself "Rutabaga Man" unfortunately it had no effect, but that shows how Skip was, you just never new what was coming next. And with memories like those how can you not love the guy! I know every time I see the beer commercial for the world's most interesting man, I can help but not think of Skip, that was him to a tee. You will be missed but not forgotten, and to quote "Thanks for the memories."
Randy Meekins
October 25, 2013
I'm glad to have had the honor of knowing Skip. There are so many good things about him. Connie, T and Riley, my thoughts and Prayers go out to you. Thank you for sharing Skip with us. Skip, you will not need your safe cracking equipment to unlock the gates of Heaven. I'm sure they have the doors unlocked waiting for you.
LaToya Flemmington
October 25, 2013
Rest in Peace Mr. Skip
Erin Caley
October 25, 2013
Bobby, Kim, Erika, Kristy and family....my condolences on the loss of your brother and uncle. He sounded like an amazing man. I will be thinking about you all through this difficult time.
Tom Rush
October 25, 2013
To the Eckert Family,
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Skip. I met skip in the late 80's and early 90's while I was working at Rex's Salvage. I would call Skip to come in and unlock any safes that would come in without their combinations. I would also give Skip a call if and when we would get gymnastic equipment in. He was really delighted when we would get the floor mats in. It did not take long to get to know Skip on a more casual and non business basis. He would listen when I would tell him of the times I went to England, and he would tell me about the times he would go there so often on business that he developed a number of friends there as well. That is not surprising. He would tell me stories of the many places he would go around the world. Skip knew everyone. He would take the time and effort to help anyone. Skip is all and every bit of the things mentioned in his well written obituary. I am honored to have known him. I will miss him, and I know the family will miss him. All of you will be in my prayers. May the void of him missing in you lives be filled with all your thoughts and memories of Skip. Rest in Peace, Skip
Robert Mckinney
October 25, 2013
I knew Skip all thru School. We had a blast. Wrestling and he got early Gymnastics started at Manchester. My condolances to all his family and friends. Bob Mckinney Class of 69
October 25, 2013
May your wonderful memories comfort you during this time of great grief. Whoever wrote the obituary in the Akron Beacon Journal has my appreciation for describing a beloved person's life so well that as I finished reading about Eckert; it made me sorry that I did not know him. An Akron stranger....
Vickie Schultz-Bernish
October 25, 2013
Skip, I spent a great many school years with you, you were a great kid then, and from what I have been reading, you turned into a great man! my condolences to the family, but this is your new journey, God Bless
Daniel D. Smith
October 25, 2013
Dear Eckert Family, Connie, Riley Jo and Tyler....
my heart and tears go out to all of you over your lost because though you do not know me, Skip has had my friendship and love since we met in my youth.
May The Holy Father and God of Our Lord Jesus Christ thru the Holy Spirit surround all of you with their comfort, peace and mighty love.. over the passing of one who touch other peoples lives with love...In Jesus Name ..amen amen amen
It was in 1977/78 that Skip came into my life, while one was lifeguarding were he lived at. He would do flips over the diving board and then later on while resting be seen keying locks.
Skip took me, a confused young man having troubled with his own family, under his wing, and tried to teach me the trade, yet I was mechanically inclined.
In the short time that Skip was in my life he at least taught me some values of life which must have come from his mother's saying about "leaving wherever you are a better place than you found it".
Skip was always there for me even though he could not pay me for trying to learn that wonderful trade that he knew so well. He was the best and I love him for he tried to hire me at Cuyahoga Locksmith with his partner Jerry...then at least helped me with Bass Lock and Key opportunity in 1987 even when I had not yet mastered the craft..Skip felt I just lack confidence in myself.
Though like all things in life when Skip married and had a family of his own, we seemed to have grown apart. Wow did this tribute of his life reveal truly the amazing man I missed out on learning more from plus his obituary reveals the love of a man who showered Gods love on this earth and now will rain it down from Heaven until Jesus comes back..
Skip..I love you and have always missed you ...my own sister Laurel's last name is now Eckert due to the man she married so I am always reminded of you...God bless your family and send more angels around them now...okay....
In His peace and love
your friend always daniel d. smith (lionman/cub)
Bob Spada
October 25, 2013
Skip's passing is a loss, of great magnitude, to the world. Always kind and willing to help anyone in need. Over the past 30 plus years I looked forward to seeing and being with Skip. Franklin's memory will live on in the hearts of all of the people that he touched. May God continue to bless his family. Thanks to Connie, Walter and family for sharing Skip with us.s
Rick & Denise Wheatley
October 25, 2013
Connie and family~
We are so saddened to learn that Skip has passed away. He was a very special person and also a very influential person in our daughter's life - both as a great gymnastics coach and - first and foremost - a wonderful man with a huge heart. Rick and I were blessed to know both you and Skip. We will cherish our memories and keep you close in our thoughts and our hearts - not only during this difficult time but always! You have our deepest sympathies.
Love, Rick and Denise Wheatley
Sue Guy Alsobrook
October 25, 2013
What a wonderful adventure Skip created for all that knew and loved him...I can only imagine that the adventure will continue on another level! I remember him well from MHS and his wrestling days with my brother Jack...my sincere condolences to his family and friends...I'll be listening to the Beatles today and thinking good thoughts!
Janelle Clinkenbeard
October 25, 2013
Dear Eckert Family - My heart truly aches for your loss. There really are no words that can fill the void that you are presently feeling. In the days ahead may the wonderful memories of Skip begin to comfort you and bring you peace. Remembering is another way to love.
Janelle (Turner) Clinkenbeard
Eric Stone (MHS '79)
October 25, 2013
Dear Eckert family,
My heart goes out to you for this terrible loss. I didn't know Skip personally, but he sounds like quite a character, much like his mom. May God bless and comfort each of you during this time of sorrow.
Chuck C
October 25, 2013
I didn't know Skip but after reading this glowing tribute, I wish I had..........R.I.P.
Jennifer
October 25, 2013
I never met Skip, but he sounds like someone I would have liked. To Skip's family ~ I am very sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to your family.
October 25, 2013
Connie and Riley there are no words to say how sorry I am for you both. Just know Heaven has become a better place and there will be someone very special waiting for you. Fondly Mary Fay Pugh
October 25, 2013
There are no words, Connie and Riley to say how very sorry I am for you both. Just know Heaven has become a better place for you to look forward to. Fondly Mary Fay Pugh
Linda Perdue (Dotson)
October 25, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of Skip's passing. I knew him at MHS. His wonderful daring sense of humor was appreciated by all who knew him. You family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Rikki Horrigan
October 25, 2013
Skip was a legend in more ways than we knew...Thank you for sharing so much more of who he was with us. But thank you most of all for sharing him with our daughter Hannah. He is her mentor and she will keep him alive in her life ambitions. He taught her much more than gymnastics in that small gym in Wadsworth (later the big gym in Wadsworth) and I know she will NEVER forget the lessons she learned or the man who inspired her to fly!
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How to support Skip's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Skip Eckert's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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