Joseph Eckelman

Joseph M. Eckelman, 66 of Bradenton, Florida, passed on July 15, 2023. Born December 30, 1956 in Seymour, Indiana. Joe was the son of Sally Eckelman and Kaye Eckelman. Joe graduated from Seymour High in 1975 and Sullivan College of Business in 1976. Some of Joe's greatest memories are from his football days at school.

Upon graduation Joe had a long career at Valeo until his early retirement in 2001. He went on to work at Payton Place Auto until his full retirement in 2019 in which he moved to Florida to enjoy sunshine and his grandchildren. Survivors include his son Greg Eckelman, a sister Lynn Fleetwood, his grandchildren among with many aunts, uncles and cousins. Joe's main purpose in life was family. He never met a stranger and would always go out of his way to help anyone in need. His passion in life was sports, IU Basketball or the Cincinnati Bengals, which were his favorite teams. *Just one more NCAA Banner or just one Bengal super bowl win in his life would've made his day.

His absolute favorite memories he would want shared, would be his years coaching his son Greg and his grandchildren's sports teams. Kaylee's championship trophies were his most prized possessions.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation will be handled by Shannon Funeral Homes in Florida and a celebration of life will be hosted at the Pizza Palace at a later date. Everyone attending will have the option to try the Joe Eckelman Special Deluxe pizza with NO CHEESE.