Richard (Dick) Fredrick Eckel

Richard (Dick) Fredrick Eckel passed away in the evening of August 22, 2016 at Summitview Healthcare Center in Yakima, WA. Richard was born as the only child of Fredrick Charles and LaFern (Davis) Eckel in Wapato, Washington on April 4, 1928. Richard attended Wapato schools and graduated from Wapato High School in 1946. Some of his earliest years involved his participation in the Boy Scouts of America in which he obtained the degree of Eagle Scout. After graduation from high school, Dick joined the U.S. Navy and served for three years as a fireman first class in the Pacific fleet. Upon discharge he returned to Wapato where he met the love of his life Valee Jo Myers when they both worked for the Wapato parks and recreation department. Richard and Valee were married at the Wapato Presbyterian Church on December 23, 1951 and then embarked on a life long journey that lasted nearly sixty five years.

Dick and Valee were blessed with three lovely daughters, Suzanne Frances, Karri Jo, and Julie LaFern. After receiving his bachelor's and master's degrees from Central Washington State College, Dick began a long career as a public educator. He held positions as an elementary and secondary teacher, coach, and retired as the vice-principal of West Valley Junior High school in 1982. His passions for helping students were displayed in his commitment as a wrestling and swim team coach, and in his undying effort to help all those that came to him as a mentor. Beyond his commitment to his family and students, Richard and his loving wife Valee were founding members of Westminster Presbyterian church where they were proud to raise their daughters and grandchildren while serving in a multitude of service and leadership roles including Richard's service as a longtime member of the church's performing choir. Richard also was a passionate hunter, fisherman and golfer who shared his interests with his grandchildren.

Richard is survived by his wife Valee Jo Eckel, daughters Suzanne Winquist (Tryg) of West Seattle, WA, Karri Jo Livingston (Ron) of Yakima, WA, and Julie O'Brien (Tom) of Kennewick, WA. In addition, Richard is proudly survived by his four grandchildren, Amanda Giralmo, Chase Livingston (Paige), Sarah O'Brien and Tommy O'Brien. Richard is preceded in death by his parents Fredrick Charles Eckel and LaFern Flora Eckel.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Summitview Healthcare Center for their many years of compassion and care for Richard.

Memorial services will be held at Yakima Covenant Church on Summitview Avenue at 2:00 pm on Saturday, September 17, 2016.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either West Valley Schools Foundation or the Summitview Healthcare Center Employee Fund.

To share a memory of Dick, please visit www.keithandkeith.com.