James William Eckard

James William Eckard was born February 8, 1938, at Kansas City, Kansas. He was the son of Cecil and Dora (Griffith) Eckard. He grew up in Kansas City. During his military service, he lived in Texas for two years, then returned to Kansas City. In 1967, he moved to Princeton, in Franklin County, Kansas, where he made his home, until his death Monday, April 7, 2003, at the age of sixty-five years. James graduated from Argentine High School, in Kansas City, Kansas, with the class of 1956. He was presently employed as lead crew chief in plant maintenance for American Airlines, where he had worked since 1967. He had previously worked for Trans World Airlines, until the company buyout. James served in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1960. He was a member of Ottawa Lodge #18, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons, Scottish Rite Consistory of Lawrence, and Abdullah Shrine Club of Kansas City, Kansas. James enjoyed collecting antique watches. He was an avid reader and loved working on the computer. A man of many trades, he also enjoyed working on the farm and remodeling the house. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family and many friends. On February 5, 1959, James was united in marriage with Nancy Larrick at Kansas City, Kansas. She survives of their home. He is also survived by his son, James S. Eckard and his wife, Vickie, of Ottawa; two sisters, LaDonna Wade of Edwardsville, Kansas, Margie Nagel of Des Moines, Iowa; four grandchildren, Jennille Scrutchfield, Nikki Reyes, Dylan Eckard, Kara Eckard, all of Ottawa; and, two great-grandchildren, Jeremiah Scrutchfield and Alex Reyes, both of Ottawa. He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Penny Eckard; and, son, Daniel Eckard. SERVICES: Mr. Eckard will lie in state at the Dengel & Son Mortuary after 5:00 p.m. Wednesday to Thursday evening. Family will meet with friends at the mortuary from 7 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, April 10, 2003. Private family services will be held at a later date. MEMORIALS: The family suggests memorials to Shriner`s Hospital, c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through www.dengelmortuary.com.