Dr. Richard E. "Dick" Ecker passed away peacefully Dec. 6, 2021, surrounded by family.
Born in Waverly, Iowa, in 1930 to Robert and Winifred Ecker, Dick was the fourth of five siblings. Dick treasured time with his many nieces and nephews and was an avid chronicler of family events. Beyond his devotion to God and family, his passion for discovery and service took many forms. He was an Argonne scientist, Korean war veteran, professor, author, historian, inventor and disaster relief team member, to name a few of his many undertakings. He truly lived in the spirit described by Albert Schweitzer: "Life becomes harder for us when we live for others, but it also becomes richer and happier." He will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Myrna; his children, Suzanne Ecker, Mark (Cathy) Ecker, Eric Ecker and Karen (Michael) Hipskind of Hinsdale; his grandchildren, Keenon Ecker, Sherri (Matthew) Knop, Amy (Dustin) Roller, Samantha (Bradley) West, Matthew Hipskind and Elizabeth, Madeline and Mary Rockouski; his great-grandchildren, Lily Ecker and Chase Roller, Colton and Melody Knop, and Olivia and Ryan West; and his brother, Tom (Carol) Ecker.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Beth (Michael) Rockouski; and his siblings, Don, Ted, Dick and Janet.
Visitation is from 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at Sullivan Funeral Home, 60 S. Grant St., Hinsdale.
Family and friends will meet for a funeral service at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13, at Christ Church of Oak Brook, 501 Oak Brook Road.
Interment is private.
