Gary G. Eckert

Gary Eckert born, in 1929 in Portland, Oregon, passed peacefully at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, July 14. He lived a long and remarkable life defined by service, dedication, and deep love for his family. At just seventeen, he joined the U.S. Army in September 1946, serving with the 11th Airborne Division in Japan until March 1948. Upon returning home, he completed high school in 1949 and went on to graduate from Oregon State University in 1953. 

In 1955, he moved to Virginia and began his career with the State Department before transitioning into the emerging world of mainframe computing. As a sales professional with Sperry, he played a role in the early development of technologies that would shape the modern digital era. 

He married Elizabeth Eckert in 1960, and together they built a loving family with their three children: Leslie (Mike), Jennifer (Russell), and Bennett (Christine). He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and a delighted great‑grandfather to five. 

Gary was a golfer, surf fisher, and a man who always had a project going in the garage from wood to leather, he tinkered with it all.  

He is survived by his siblings Gail and Marlene, and preceded in death by his brother Wesley. 

Gary will be remembered for his quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to family. His life was one of purpose, service, and love, and his memory will be treasured by all who knew him.