Tom Eck

Mary Lou, Al, Myra and Family,



My family and I are so sorry to hear of your loss, We did not know Tommy well but remember the kindness you showed us when we visited you and went swimming with you not so many years ago it seems. It is hard for cousins to stay in contact sometimes, but loving people make an impact on your heart. Our prayers are with you and your family at this time.



Sue, Scott, Katie and Ryan Thompson

myra and family,

I cannot express how deeply sorry I am for you and your family. Our lives have been greatly touched by beautiful men. As they watch us from heaven, I pray we can be comforted, knowing how much they love us and were loved. There lives have been short yet fulfilled.Please know I am here for you and do love you very much. love, annette,noah,and christian

Mary-Lou, Al, Myra, Ginny and Peter--



Oh what glory awaits him, in heavens bright city. When he gets there, what sights he'll behold. A million scenes of rare beauty will demand that he view them, but Jesus will out-shine them all. Mansions will glisten on the hills of glory, happy reunions on streets of pure gold. Angel choirs singing glad praises forever, but Jesus will out-shine them all.



After working with Tom for 16 years, I realized he truly was an angelic presence to be around. He deeply loved his wife, children and parents-- constantly speaking of how proud he was of them. It is a heartache everyday going to work because his locker is next to mine, and a sadness has filled our workplace that i'm sure will linger forever. We talk about Tom constantly. We miss his bright smile, caring ways and his tons of cologne. God called him home and its not for us to question why. Sharing in your heartache, praying that God will give you the strength to endure each day and someday lift the pain from your hearts. Always know that Tom is watching over you and will give you guidance from our Heavenly Father, and in your dreams may you have comforting visits to substain you on earth until we meet again at heavens gates. Tom, we all love and miss you. Thanks for the visit!

Al, Mary Lou,



I only heard about your son's death this afternoon, else I would have visited with you at the funeral home. How incredibly sad! The losses you have had to bear are so immense. Please note you are in my prayers. Keep the faith. Pray together ... please.



With Sympathy and Prayers,

Myra and family,

I'm not sure you know me, I am Annette Seelhorst's youngest sister, but I did have the privelidge of meeting Tom on various occassions. He was such a wonderful man who always made me feel comfortable, even though I barely knew him. I know that he is with Eddie now, and I hope that can bring some comfort to you in this terribly sad time.

Dear Myra and entire Eck family,



I was so sorry to hear of your loss. My mother called me from Pittsburgh to tell me the news. I remember get-togethers with your wonderful family -- sometimes after volleyball and wallyball games at the YMCA. My heart goes out to you... losing such a wonderful man and family member.

Myra & Children,



I was at your office the day your husband passed away. Everyone was very visably upset. Please know we are remembering you and the children in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Myra and Family,

You and your family have my deepest sympathy. I am an Instructor at Western Pennsylvania Hospital School of Nursing and have been teaching for many years. Tom was one of those students who will always be remembered for his caring and understanding of human nature. No task was to big or to small for him. He welcomed me to West Penn with his"Welcome to West Penn Hospital School of Nursing" when I was the new kid on the block. I saw him March 2nd and he had his usual Hi,hug and "how are you doing". He is missed.

Dear Myra and Family,

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I went to high school with Tom. He was such a sweet person who always knew how to make you smile when you were down. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Dear Myra and Family, You and your entire family have my deepest sympathy. Tom was a co-worker and a friend. He was a wonderful man. The words that come to my mind when I think of him, are "To know him, was to love him". The ray of sunshine that he brought to AGH, will brighten the halls of AGH forever. . Tom is in a better place now, making everybody smile,like only he could do. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.

Dear Myra and the entire Eck family ,I would like to extend my greatest sympathies and prayers for your loss. Tom was not only my co-worker he was also my friend whom I cherished dearly and will sorely miss. His smile, kind words, and thoughtfullness will always be remembered.

Dear Al and Mary Lou,

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Your family is in my prayers.

God bless and keep watch over you all.

Dear Eck Family,

I am sorry for your tremendous loss. I feel priveleged to have been able to encounter such a beautiful soul in my lifetime. Tom displayed such a joie de vivre that was so inspiring and his absence will be profoundly obvious amongst his colleagues at AGH. Tom taught me a great deal in such a short time. I am grateful for what I was able to learn from him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Dear Myra and Family,

i worked with Tom at ANI and AGH, he was everything and more that everyone else has said in this guest book so far. He was an incredible person, always upbeat, positive, and fun to be around... you all have, and you will suffer the most, but i hope you can find comfort in the fact that he truly was an individual that touched so many lives, even if just for a brief moment..... my deepest sympathy and i will keep you all in my prayers....



God Bless,

Donna

Myra and Eck Family,



My deepest sympathy to you and yours. I worked with Tom during the Senior Life Management program at Coventry. As a Southern Star, his shining light will be ever missed. I will never forget his humor, kindness, love and dedication to the seniors and healthcare. I can still hear him every morning walking the aisle saying "Welcome and Good Morning." May the Lord bless you and keep you during this time of loss.

To the Eck Family,



I know Tom from him being one of our graduates from West Penn Hospital School of Nursing. I am the one who helped him through the process of getting admitted to the School. He was a most dear man. I'll never forget how he would greet us at the door to the School. He did what I would call a "fast talk" greeting that only he could do. I can hear him saying it even now. But other than that he cared about everyone and everything at our School. He added so much to the School while he was here. I was very pleased to hear he had passed his RN licensure exam and that he was taking classes towards his BSN. In fact, I just saw him here not long ago. It hardly seems possible that I'll not see him again. He will be missed by a lot of people since he was such a people person. I know that Tom is in the best place possible, with our Heavenly Father. I know he's there talking with all of the Angels and asking for an assignment for how he can help someone here below. I extend to you my deepest sympathy and prayers at this time of great loss. I pray that God will keep you in His Care. God Bless You and take care of each other.

Myra,



Please accept my sincere sympathy on the loss of your husband. My prayers are with you.



Lorraine

RAJ Cardiovascular Association

Myra and Family, Tom was such a wonderful and kind person,who loved his family and touched everyone he came in contact with. I was lucky enough to meet Tom at ANI, and I know he touched my heart with his kindness and humor. He will be truly missed by all.

Tom,

You will be missed by so many people. You will never be forgotten. God needed another angel and he chose you. We miss you Tom.



Deepest Sympathy to Tom's family my prayers are with you.



Missy Erkel R.N.

Myra and family,

How truly blessed you are to have been Tom's real family! Every life Tom touched will have an empty space. But all will keep a memory of Tom's warmth, gentleness, humor and personality. It was wonderful to walk into the staffing office and be greated with his big "Hello". He always had a sense of well-being about him. He will be missed.

God grant you strength and peace in days to come.

Deepest sympathy,

Mary Kiger

TO TOM'S FAMILY, MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU IN THIS TIME OF SORROW. PLEASE KNOW THAT GOD NEEDED ANOTHER ANGEL SO TOM WAS CALLED. IT WAS A REAL PLEASURE TO HAVE KNOWN TOM. MY DAUGHTER NATASHA AND I WILL MISS HIM VERY MUCH.

TO TOM'S FAMILY, MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU IN THIS TIME OF SORROW. PLEASE KNOW THAT GOD NEEDED ANOTHER ANGEL SO TOM WAS CALLED. IT WAS A REAL PLEASURE TO HAVE KNOWN TOM. MY DAUGHER NATASHA AND I WILL MISS HIM VERY MUCH.

I am so shocked to hear of this news. Tom was such a wonderful, caring person. We were in nursing school at the same time, although we went to different schools, and we would discuss our clinic rotations and wonder how we were going to remember everything to pass our boards. This truely saddens me to actually be writing this. I expect to hear his voice coming from the staffing office to see how you were doing or to ask if you were available to sit....I has been a blessing to have known this man.. He has touched my life in such a positive manner.....and his presence will be greatly missed....

To the Eck Family, I worked with

Tom at AGH. He was always a smiling face to brighten the darkest shift. You could never be mad when he called up an admission to your floor, he usually had a witty remark that quickly deflated any anger you had about getting another patient on your already too busy workload. I was so proud to know he was joining the nursing profession, he will be sadly missed.

I have known Tom since I worked with him at ANI and at Allegheny General Hospital. He was an angel and will truly be missed

Myra and family

I just came back fom the funeral home and I was in awe at the number of people. What a wonderful tribute to Tom. I just wish I had spent more time talking to him at NIcole's wedding. He touched so many people's lives in such a wonderful way. You were truly blessed to be able to have him in your lives. He will always be in your hearts and watching over all of you. If there is anything we can do for you please don't hesitate to call.

God Bless

Karen, Bill and Paul

To the Eck Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. It has been said that God only takes the best and from the other entries I have read Tom certainly was one of the best. I remember when he would come to the elementary school to pick up Peter or Ginny he always had a smile on his face & a friendly hello to give anyone he saw. Peter & Ginny always be proud of your dad because he truly was a kind and gentle man, who just by seeing him with you a person could tell he loved you very much.

Tom was an angel on this earth. I am blessed to have known him for 2+ years at the West Penn Hospital School of Nursing. Not a day went by that Tom didn't say "good morning sunshine!". Everyone who met Tom will forever be touched by his goodness, happiness and love. God will bless you with strength and the love of family and friends will sustain you at this time. My prayers are with you.

Dear Myra and Family,

Our sincerest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Tom was a truly wonderful person. He brought joy to everyone he touched. We are going to miss him very much.

Love,

Mickey & Mary Hicks

Dearest Myra and Family,

I was truly shocked to hear of Tommy's passing. He was such a unique individual. He brought so much joy to everyone's life that he touched. He did so many wonderful things for my family, like making both my wedding cake and wedding shower cake. He was so much fun to work with at Hicks' Bar. We ALL had many great times with him at the BAR. He and I (Renee) used to dance on the bar together and whoop it up on Friday Nights. I really am going to miss him.

Love,

Walt & Renee Vitovich

Myra, kids and family,

There are no words to express how sad and hurt my heart is when I received the news of Tom. I'm the Administrative Secretary at the School of Nursing where Tom became a Registered Nurse, something he dreamed of. Tom was the kindest, sweetest and most generous man I have ever known. I'll miss him coming into the school every week and making his rounds to see everyone. He always had a very big hello for everyone and we'll never forget the words Tom would say when someone would come to the school for the first time. "Hello, and welcome to the Western Pennsylvania Hospital School of Nursing". He said it very fast and with a very warm welcome. Tom's memory will always be in my heart. God bless you and may God grant you peace.

Dear Myra, My deepest sympathy to you, your children and the entire Eck family.Tom will be truly missed by all. He was a wonderful, caring and loving man. I met Tom many years ago when we both worked at ANI and then continued our friendship working at AGH on the 7th. floor. Tom truly brought sunshine into everyone's life. I will never forget his smile, hugs or laugh.

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Tom's passing. I shall miss saying Good Morning on those dark wintry days when we were both heading off to work when it seemed like no one else was awake yet. He always had a smile and a warm Hello. My deepest sympathies for your loss.

Family of Tom Eck,



There are no words to express the profound grief many of Tom's friends feel. Tom took everyone under his wing displaying his selflessness, great spirit, and love for life and love for everyone around him. He was truly an angel on Earth. He will be so deeply missed by so many. His awesomeness touched so many people, and he made the world a better place. He was a ray of sunshine even in dark times, and I am sure he is shining down on us even now...wanting to wipe our tears.



I pray that God's peace will help you through this difficult time.

I knew Tom when he was a student at West Penn Hospital School of Nursing where I am Assistant Director. There are just some students who touch your life and Tom is one of them. I've always believed that teachers can educate students but always in turn can learn from their students. I learned so much from Tom. I learned to try to be happy no matter what the situation--Tom was always "graceful under pressure". Tom always took an interest in people as individuals and truly was caring about how they felt. He took the time to talk to you. Tom also was an activist--went out and solicited items to raffle off to make money for his nursing class. He was proud of the playground that he helped to establish in his community. He was extremely proud of his accomplishments as a nurse--but most proud of his family. He often talked about his wife and children. He was so excited when it was "movie night" and he could make popcorn and watch movies at home with his family. Tom was able to balance work and school and always found the time for his family. When the Class of 2003 graduated...I missed all of the students...I especially missed seeing Tom greeting everyone as they walked up the steps of the school...now I'm just downright missing him and everything he stood for...Thanks Tom, for letting me know you just a little bit...that little bit...has truly touched my life.

Tom was very spec1al in every way. I am a friend of Cheri's and meet him through her. I work a West Penn Hospital and would have lunch and ride shuttle with him. He worked hard and will be missed by all that knew him.

Dear Myra,

My family and I wish to extend our deepest heartfelt sympathy to you and your family at this most difficult time. I didn't know Tom but I'm very certain that he was a wonderful husband father son and friend. You and your children are in my thoughts and prayers everyday. I wish there were something I could do to help ease your pain. We are here for you now and always. Sincerely, Robyn

I just want to thank God for allowing me to have known Tom. I met Tom at Northgate High School. We became friends right away. No one ever made me laugh like Tom did. Once you heard that laugh of his, you knew the entire room would be laughing along with him. His smile lite up the room. He has such a big heart. He touched each one of our hearts and we will be better people for knowing him. I was lucky enough to have been Tom's date at the senior prom. He looked so handsome in his tux and top hat. What fun we had, we danced all night long. The last time I saw Tom was at the Assumption Festival. It had been a couple of years since we had seen eachother, but he came right up and gave me a great big hug. We talked and talked. It was like those lost years just disappeared.

Tom will never be forgotten, he will always be a part of our memories and when we think about him we will smile.

I am praying for the Eck family. If I can help in anyway, please let me know.

I worked with Tom in the Senior Life project at Coventry HealthCare. Tom was instrumental in launching that program with his desire to help people and his drive to excel. I was so pleased when Tom continued to devote himself to the field of healthcare. We are, all of us, diminished by this loss.

Myra,

I was working as the receptionist at the School of Nursing when Tom was a student. I liked to greet everyone at the door with "Good Morning -- welcome to the WPHSON!" Tom soon took over this job with great enthusiasm. He would greet everyone with a catalog of information about our school, as well as Clarion. Everyone felt welcomed when Tom was at the door. I also enjoyed the way he told a joke, especially the one about Santa and the chimney! Tom was a big guy with a big heart. He would make everyone happy just by being there. Some people are just meant to leave a lasting impression. Everyone who met Tom just had to love him. I know the angels are welcoming him into heaven. I am so sorry he had to leave us at such a young age. I hope that you and his family will find some strength in knowing how much he was loved. A chaplain once told me that we keep a person alive by telling stories about them. I bet there are some really good stories to tell about Tom. Please take one day at a time. Things will get better. God Bless you. Judy

Myra and family,



I don't know that I have ever witnessed such monumental sadness as I have witnessed at AGH since learning of Tom's passing. He was a ray of sunshine to us all. Anybody who met him, even once, would never forget his love of life, his love for his family, and his love for his work. We were all so proud of Tom when he finished RN school. I worked very closely with him when he worked in the staffing office, and no words can express the sense of loss being felt by everybody he touched. May God be with you all, and may He give you the faith to understand why God needed him more than anyone else. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

To Mary Lou and Al,

I was so sorry to hear about your recent lose of another son. Our deepest sympanthy to his wife Myra and children, and to both of you as well. My daughters, Heather and Denise and I are thinking of you all in this trying time. No words can really be said to ease your pain at this very difficult time but just to let you know our thoughts are with you and your family even up here in Canada.



God Bless you all,

Margaret, Heather and Denise Bury

CO-WORKER FROM ALLEGHENY GENERAL

ARMEY J GORDON

Myra and family, I worked with Tom at Coventry during the Senior Life Project and have since moved to Oklahoma. Tom was such a special blessing to me and the team during that time. There were days when things were rough and Tom was always there to brighten my day and simply give us all a smile. I used to walk by his desk almost every morning simply to get my dose of happiness! He also touched so many lives during that program. There were countless numbers of seniors who simply waited on Tom's phone call knowing he would help them if needed or simply listen to them and send them a smile over the phone. God put Tom in that program for a reason and I will never forget him. He was a blessing to all of us and I look forward to seeing him someday again in our heavenly home. May God bless all of you through this difficult time and please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. DeAnn Warfel

Myra, Peter, Ginny, and Family,

Martin and I will always remember Tom and his sense of humor. No matter what office function, you could count on Tom to liven up the group. Whether it be a formal dinner at Fox Chapel Yacht Club, a picnic, or most recently Nicole's wedding, Tom made sure no one just sat around. He was the life of the party. Even if you just saw Tom talking, but couldn't hear him, you knew by his facial expressions and mannerisms that he was making someone smile or laugh. He will be greatly missed by everyone in the office, as well as those who knew him elsewhere. We're sure he is smiling down with his tie loosened, a cigarette in one hand and a drink in the other, telling the angels in heaven one of his crazy experiences! God must have needed him for comic relief, why else would he take a one of a kind dad, husband, son, friend and nurse. We are here for you now and always.

Chris, Martin, Ryan & Brendan

Myra, Ginny, and Peter,

Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. Tom was a great man and he will live through you and your children. We love you and you are in our prayers and hearts...

Dear Al and Mary Lou and the entire Eck family,

Our deepest sympathy at this time of grief. May you find strength at this time.

Anyone who ever met Tom did not take long to know he was special. He brought a smile to the faces of everyone he met. I believe we all have a great loss in one of the most honest and loving people we will ever meet. My prayers go to his family and friends. I will always miss that booming laugh.

Michelle,

Our sympathies are with you and your family during this trying time. God Bless all of you.

Dan, Lynda, Jermey & Kyle Kregar (and Abby)

Dear Myra, We are so very sorry for your loss. I wish I would have kept in better touch with both you and Tom over the years. When you feel up to talking, please give me a call or e-mail. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Lori

As director of West Penn School of Nursing, I have many memories of Tom as he diligently worked his way through our program while he continued to work and maintain his family and community activities. His positive out look on life and the school permeated through his fellow students. As president of the Class of 2003, his leadership was a model for others to follow. But most importantly, his life was one of honor and pleasing to the Lord. He will be GREATLY missed!

Tom and Myra and kids,

I don't know why the good lord decided to take Tom at such a young age. Perhaps he needed someone to keep him laughing. Never forget his smile, his hugs, and most importantly his laugh.

Tom,

We will miss you. Thanks for making me laugh. Always vogue,

ginny

Tom,

He loved life. He was the perfect example of what the good Lord above wants life to be about. Please read Ecclesiates 3: 1-10 my tribute to a great man. I love you Tom. I know that you are in heaven. (no doubt) " Hey Ladies, all the Ladies" this was Tom's song when he saw the ladies.

Myra, God Bless you and your children and Tom's mother and father. Thank you to Tom's parent's for having such a great son. My heart is very happy, because I was able to know such a great human being.

With Love,

Barbara Peterson

When i got the call about Tom, they were words i didn't want to hear. I just looked up and asked God what was going on. Myra, I don't have to tell you how the girls and I feel about Tom. We love him and always considered him as our family. All the memories of the times we spent together and the laughter and smiles he gave so freely will never go away. You both were a big part of my girls lives at a time that was so important to them. We still sit around and talk about the picnics,regatta,all the band festivals and the parades. He has touch our hearts and will always remain there. Myra our love goes out to you and the little ones. I know how hard this is for you all..but remember you were blessed with a wonderful man...even though it was a short period of time....but Tom gave you a love that some people never experience in a life time....how blessed you were...you have my love as you always have and i don't have to tell you how much Tom will be missed. Aunt Mae & Girls

Our deepest sympathy to Myra and the entire Eck Family, Tommy was so full of energy and beautiful spirit. He will be truly missed. We are just very lucky that we had the opportunity to work with Tommy and get to know a wonderful person.

My Prayers are with the family. I worked with Tom at Coventry Healthcare during the Senior Life Project.Tom is a vibrant and wonderful soul... He will be forever remembered. We are all blessed for knowing him.

I worked with Tom at ANI - what a special guy. He never failed to bring a smile to my face. I ran into him last week at AGH - hadn't seen him for about 10 years. I guess it was God's way of letting me hug him one last time and I'll always be thankful for that.

Tom,

We will miss you so much. You were a ray of sunshine. The good do die young. We will be praying for you and that your family can find some comfort at this time. You will not be forgotten!

Janet and Amanda

I knew Tom from working at AGH. I first met Tom as a West Penn Nursing Student when he did a rotation in Employee Health. He was there shortly after our secretary left the department and we were crazy busy, but he just rolled up his sleeves and helped me get organized as I was doing secretarial as well as nursing duties. Nothing was too big or small for Tom to do. He was a godsend to us that day and then at the end of the day he went and got "a treat" for me and the CRNP(which was a Chia tea) because it had been so hectic. I will remember Tom everytime I go and get my "treat" (which I have been addicted to since that day and I used to tease Tom about when I saw him in the hallways at work). He will be greatly missed at AGH.

I am so very sorry to hear of Tom's death. Please know, as always, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God grant you peace.

Myra, all of us at the Short stay unit wish to extend our sympathy to you and your family..you are in our prayers.