Richard "Rick" W. Eckel

Richard “Rick” W. Eckel, age 69, resident of Toledo, Ohio, passed away at St. Vincent Medical Center, on Friday, October 30, 2026. He was born in Toledo, Ohio, on February 4, 1957.

He was a graduate of Start High School, class of 1975. Rick dedicated 37 years of hard work and commitment to Coca‑Cola.

In his free time, he enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and gardening. Rick was an avid sports fan who loved cheering on his favorite Detroit teams, including the Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings. He also enjoyed bowling and, most of all, watching his grandchildren play sports. Their games brought him great joy and gave him countless moments to be proud of. In his earlier years, he enjoyed coaching his sons’ sports teams, sharing his knowledge, encouragement, and love of the game with younger generations.

Whether he was casting a fishing line, tending to his garden, watching a game, or sitting in the stands cheering on his grandchildren, he found happiness in the things he loved and the people who meant the most to him. His love of family, sports, and life will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Those left to forever cherish his memory are his loving wife of 49 years, Denise Eckel, whom he married on June 4, 1977; sons, Taylor (Jenny) and Ryan (Laura); grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Kallie, Bryce, and Landon; brother, John (Laurie) Eckel and their children, Lydia and Alex; sister, Robin Eckel and her children Melissa, and Sierra; father-in-law, Paul Andryzcik; brother-in-law, Marty (Beth) Andryzcik and their children, Erin, and Blair (Bryan) and their children, Carmen, Leah, and Jace; and many friends!

Rick was preceded in death by his mom, Sue Eckel; and nephew, Cory Stricker.

At this time there will be no services held. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.