Richard G. Eckhardt

Albany — Richard (Rich) Eckhardt, a lifelong resident of Albany, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Tuesday December 26, 2023, at St Peter's Hospital. He was 90.

Born in 1933, Rich was the youngest child of German immigrants. A graduate of Our Lady of Angels School and Albany High School, Rich worked for 20 years at Williams Press and then for the NYS Education Dept until retiring in 1995. He was a long-time communicant of Our Lady of Angels Church, and later, the Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Americas (St Patrick's).

Rich enjoyed vacationing in Cape Cod, Maine and tailgating at Army football games. He was an avid runner who prided himself on his many awards, once being featured in a 2011 article in the Times Union. Rich doted on his 5 grandchildren, attending every play, show, sporting event and graduation. He especially enjoyed spending time with his buddies John DiSorbo and Norm Strite.

Rich was predeceased by his parents, Phillip and Anna, his wife Janet, his sister Mary, his brother Eddie, and his longtime companion Sheila Akullian. He is survived by his sons Rick (Meg) and Tim (Cathy), his grandchildren Janet, Greg, Elizabeth, Julie, Kara, and his nephew Eddie (Tami Jo). The family thanks the Nurses at St. Peter's Hospital ICU for the loving care they gave to him, especially Jason and Lee.

Visitation will be from 4-6pm on January 4, 2024 at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie 12205. A Mass of Christian Burial, officiated by Fr. Francis O'Connor, will be celebrated at 10:00am , on January 5, 2024 at The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Americas 273 Central Avenue Albany, New York 12206. Interment to follow in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Central Avenue, Albany.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rich's name to Blessed Sacrament Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Americas, Office address: 274 Sherman St, Albany, New York 12206.