Richard J. Eckinger

Richard J. Eckinger, age 72, of Magnolia, passed into glory on Jan. 30, 2022, after a two year battle with cancer, at home with his beloved family. Born on July 25, 1949 in Canton, Ohio to the late Walter and Betty (Reisling) Eckinger.

Rick was a 1967 graduate of Canton South High School and attended Rio Grande University. He was employed in the family construction business, Eckinger Construction Company, for 40 years, retiring in 2013, while serving the last 22 years as Vice President.

Rick enjoyed all sports and participated in golf and bowling leagues for many years. He also helped coach Little League baseball teams, and the girls' Valleyette's softball team. Rick enjoyed stock car racing with his best friend, Dick Yohe. Most of all he loved fishing on his boat with his grandkids, and his yearly trips to Rice Lake, Canada with his son, Scott, and friends, Derek, George, Ryan, and Roger.

Rick was a proud Volunteer Fireman, serving at Canton Township Station #4 and the Magnolia Fire Department as well.

Rick is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Paulette (Rennie). They spent a wonderful life together along with their family and friends. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Lisa (Joseph) Wigfield, Scott (Jessica) Eckinger, as well as his precious grandchildren, Brandon, Jordan, Landen, and Camdyn Wigfield, and Cole and Cali Eckinger. Rick was ALWAYS there to attend their activities and to transport them in Grandpa's Taxi.

Also surviving are siblings Jim (Cheryl) Eckinger, Tom (Nancy) Eckinger, Janice (Randy) Holdsworth, and Gail (Rocky) Bourquin, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends that he treasured.

Calling hours will be on Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, from  6-8 p.m. at the Finefrock-Gordon Funeral Home in Magnolia, and also at the church one hour prior to services from 10-11 a.m. on Tuesday.  Services will be officiated by Pastor Carl Orphanides on Tuesday at 11 a.m., Feb. 8, 2022, in the Magnolia United Methodist Church located at 999 Canal Street in Magnolia, where Rick and his family faithfully attended for many years.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Rick's memory may be made to the Magnolia United Methodist Church, the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department, or to Community Hospice of New Philadelphia, Ohio.

The family requests masks to be worn and to refrain from hugging due to Covid.

Condolences may be left at: www.gordonfuneralhomes.com.

Gordon (330) 866-9425