Born June 21, 1930 in Catawba County, he was the son of the late Claude Sidney Eckard and Pearl Bolick Eckard. He was a member of St. Stephens Lutheran Church (LCMS) and retired as a self-employed brick mason.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Hilda Eckard and brothers, Brent Eckard and Bobby Eckard.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret Dillingham Eckard; son, Leland Eckard and wife Valerie; daughters, Jamie Smart and husband Barry, and Sarah Cook and friend Jerry Green; step-son, Edward Fowler; seven grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and brother, Allan Eckard.
A private graveside service will be held.
Memorial may be given to St. Stephens Lutheran Church (LCMS), 2304 Springs Road, NE, Hickory, NC 28601 or Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658
