He was born February 20, 1939 in Sterling, Illinois to Harold and Eunice (Vickery) Eckel. On January 22, 1966 he married Linda Hudson.
Jim proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was an electrician for Norman Regional Hospital for over 30 years. Jim and Linda enjoyed vacationing in the mountains. Above all he loved his family especially his grandkids and cheering on his favorite OU football teams.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Linda of 53 years; children: Laura Eckel of Norman, Kevin Eckel of Odessa, TX, Jennifer Eckel of Norman; granddaughter: Cassandra and husband Nathan DeClaire of Norman; great granddaughters: Arabella Eckel, Odette Eckel, Ophelia DeClaire; sister: Julie Hoehner as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: David, Donald and Robert Eckel.
Memorial services are scheduled for November 30, 2019 at 10 a.m. at the Memorial Presbyterian Church.
