Harry J. Eckman

Harry J. Eckman, known to all as Bud, was a good man whose quiet strength and generous heart defined his life. Barely out of his teenage years when he married, he embraced the role of father to three children who were not his own, raising them with unwavering devotion. His daughter Lisa soon completed the family, and together they created a home filled with care, laughter, and the steady assurance that they wanted for nothing. Bud taught his children to love deeply, to stand on their own, and to fix whatever life placed before them. He was the kind of father whose guidance lingered long after his lessons ended.

A hardworking man, Bud spent 45 years as an electrical mechanic with COTA while often holding a second job to provide for his family. His humor was legendary—hyper-Dad jokes delivered at unexpected moments, groaners that could surface even in his final days and were best kept within the family circle. He lived with purpose and quiet reliability, always ready to help anyone, especially those he loved.

Born on October 26, 1938, in Columbus, Ohio, Bud was preceded in death by his wife Pat and his brothers Don and Bob. He is survived by his daughters Lisa and Pat, his son Bob, grandchildren Joey and Trisha, and great-grandsons Chase, Atticus, and Zack. His passing leaves a profound emptiness in the lives and hearts of all who knew and loved him.