Howard W. Ecker

Howard W. Ecker, 89, formerly of Easton and Palmer Township, passed away Wednesday, March 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born August 1, 1935, in Perth Amboy, NJ, he was a son of the late Howard J. and Helen (Sabo) Ecker. Howard graduated from Phillipsburg High School. He served in the U.S. Army. He retired from the International Union of Operating Engineers last working for James D. Morrissey, Inc., and Stewart Cook. He had also been employed by the former Elco Housman. Howard enjoyed slot machines at area casinos. Years ago, he was a race car driver and pit crew manager for Tommy Hager. Howard loved birds, the river, family, and friends. He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers of Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware. Surviving is a daughter whom he affectionately called "Pumpkin", Sandra L. Ruth and her husband Jeff, of Palmer Township; a son, John Myer, of Alpha, NJ; two grandchildren, Kylie and Liam Ruth; step-grandchildren; a nephew who was like a son, Bobby Ecker whom he called BooBoo, formerly of Easton and his wife Sabrina and their son Braydan, of Ontario, Canada; a niece, Jan Ecker, of Phillipsburg, NJ, and her family; a nephew, Brian Ecker, of Wilson Borough, and his family; a cousin, Linda Unangst, of Tatamy; his long-time companion, Donna Ruth and her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; great-nieces and great-nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Bob Ecker and an aunt, Margaret Dickinson. Memorial calling hours will be held Thursday, March 20th, 5-7pm in the Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., 2101 Northampton Street, Wilson Borough. Offer online condolences at www.strunkfh.com. Memorial gifts may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 www.alz.org. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Howard, please visit our Tree Store.