John Eugene Eckerle, Jr., 73, passed away on September 28, 2024, at his home in Madisonville, Louisiana. Born on January 7,1951, in New Orleans, Louisiana. John dedicated much of his life to education, serving as a beloved teacher and coach for 33 years at Haynes Middle School. He was a parishioner at St. Anselm Catholic Church in Madisonville, Louisiana. John was a proud alumnus of Jesuit High School and Loyola University, where he played baseball.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John Eugene Eckerle, Sr. and Joyce Roane Eckerle.
Survived by his daughters, Laurie Melancon (Jeff) and Jamie Kratzer (Matthew); grandchildren, Allie and Avery Melancon, and Rush Kratzer; his brother, Stephen Eckerle (Aggie); his companion for over twenty years Karen Roach (Matthew, Katie, Katelyn).
John found joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed Mardi Gras, horse racing and visiting National Parks, especially Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Relatives and Friends are invited to a Funeral Mass in the chapel of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, La. on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 12:00 Noon. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM. After Mass, John will be laid to rest in Lake Lawn Park.
