Born Sept. 15, 1954, to Willard L. and Betty Ilene Eckard in Massillon, Ohio, Dale made Houston his home since 1986. His father preceded him in death in 2007. Survivors include his mother Betty, New Albany, Ohio; brother Paul Eckard and wife Lynda of Gahanna, Ohio; nephew Justin and wife Tammy Eckard and niece Jocelyn Eckard of Westerville, Ohio; eight grand nieces and nephews; and many close and dear friends all across the country.
After earning a degree in business administration from Bowling Green State University, Dale launched a most successful career in human resources. At the time of his death, he was a director in human resources for Cameron Drilling Systems in Houston.
Dale was well known for his infectious smile, wicked sense of humor, friendly and caring manner and generosity. He usually was the first among us to initiate fun and innovative get togethers centered around many of our shared passions—great food, the arts, fun parties and life’s celebrations. As football season approached, he was a happy man indeed rooting for the Ohio State Buckeyes and Houston Texans. An avid supporter of the Montrose Counseling Center, he was an active member of The Four Seasons and an enthusiastic fan of experimental and musical theater. He enjoyed all types of music and performing arts, especially Cirque du Soleil, Bette Midler and The Music Box Theater.
If we are fortunate, some of us have friends like Dale. Here was a man who loved and treasured his many friendships and family members. It wasn’t unusual for him to call and extend an invitation to dinner, “just because.” He was kind and thoughtful. He lived joyfully. And yet, after he learned of his own health crisis, Dale faced death with true dignity and courage—becoming a useful and meaningful example for all of us.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18