Howard Robert Ecker

Howard Robert Ecker, 91, of Webster, New York passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2024, with his children by his side. Predeceased by his beloved wife of 54 years, Margaret Roberston Ecker. Survived by his children, James Ecker, Mary (Todd) Putnam, and Susan Ecker, granddaughter Emily Putnam (Richard Vernetti II), many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
A proud graduate of Irondequoit High School, Howard attained his Master's Degree in Forestry Services from the New York State Ranger School and Syracuse University. Howard maintained deep, lifelong friendships with classmates from elementary school through college. Enlisting in the U.S. Air Force, Howard served his country for four years as a surveyor, and worked for years as a civil engineer for Monroe County.
Howard was a true music lover. He was an accomplished classical pianist and a valued member of both the St. Rita's Church Choir and the Saenger Choir. He enjoyed listening to all forms of classical and religious music, but was also a fan of show tunes and pop music sung by the likes of Simon and Garfunkel, Billy Joel, and the Bee Gees.
Howard's heart held the natural world especially dear. Throughout his adult life, he operated a nursery specializing in paperbark maple trees, hostas, ferns, and other natural beauties. He sold his plants to customers and nurseries locally and throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. Saying Howard was an avid fisherman is a classic understatement. He loved nothing more than watching the sunrise over Irondequoit Bay as he sat on the pier with his fishing line waiting in the water. His love of all things living extended to a lifetime of family dogs and the provision of seed and scraps for neighborhood birds, squirrels, and other needy wildlife.
Laughter and love of life are the qualities remembered most by people who met Howard, and the qualities those who loved him will miss most.
A celebratory memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 11, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Rita's Church, 1008 Maple Drive, Webster, with a reception at the church, and interment at West Webster Cemetery, to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the wonderful Shepherd Home https://www.shepherdhome.org/get-involved/donate/.