Richard Verle Eckler, 80, of Riverton died June 7, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Mo. surrounded by family and friends. Born June 11, 1942 in Galena, Richard was the son of Richard and Rayma Eckler. Whenever Richard opened his mouth to speak, those who knew him paid attention, as his words were rarely uttered but held great significance.
After graduating from Riverton High School with the class of 1960, Richard joined the Navy and later became a member of the Navy Seabees. During the 1970s, he served in the reserves and then transferred to the Army National Guard.
After working for Yellow Freight for 30 years, Richard transitioned to Coffeeville Community College as an assistant automotive instructor and taught for 15 years before retiring.
Throughout his life, Richard volunteered for the Galena Fire Department and Police Department, as well as the Cherokee County Ambulance Association for 42 years. He was also known for volunteering as Santa for the Fire Department during the holiday season.
In 1985, he married his wife, Debbie Eckler and they had four children between them. His children are Eric Eckler, John Eckler, Greg Eckler and Perri Jo Bebee. His children remember him as a devoted, patient and hardworking father and husband.
After retiring, Richard enjoyed playing pool with his son John and grandson Chance. He also spent summertime at Pine Island, where he would go boating, play cards and hang out with Perri Jo, Bry, Ethan, and Colton, along with his lake family. Eric and he had a great time shooting guns together. Richard, lovingly referred to by his grandchildren as Pops, was an avid adventurer, even well into his 70s. With his son Greg and daughter-in-law Stephanie, he explored new and exciting places by ziplining and rafting the rapids. Pop’s daily go-to attire was overalls, except when he was on the golf course. Whenever he was at home, he could be found watching either an old western or the golf channel, with his great-granddaughter Freya sitting on his lap.
His family extends to eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
Richard is survived by his wife Debbie and his children Eric, John, Greg and Perri Jo along with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Richard was predeceased by his parents Richard and Rayma, sister Roselle Ochsenbein and grandson Jackson.
The memorial service for Richard Eckler, a beloved Veteran, will take place at Derfelt in Galena. A night for family and friends was held Sunday, June 11 in celebration of his 81st birthday. A memorial service was held Monday, June 12, with a graveside ceremony afterward at Oakhill Cemetery in Galena.
Pallbearers were Chance Eckler, Bry Bebee, Ethan Bebee, Adam Anderson, Micah Martin, John Eckler Honorary Pallbearer: Colton Bebee
Celebration of Life