John J. Eckert

He was born on Nov. 3, 1957 in Neptune, NJ, a son of the late Edward C. and Esther Carlson Eckert.

After high school, John joined the US Navy, serving aboard the USS Kitty Hawk and was a Navy Seal.

He was employed by R.E. Michel Company as a salesman for several years.

John was a man of deep faith, attended Battle Cry events with church friends, and was recently re-baptized. He loved God and his Country. He attended Trinity Church of Frewsburg and Faith Outreach in Jamestown.

John loved spending time with his wife and family. He enjoyed hunting, camping and spending time outdoors. He especially enjoyed his trips to Wapiti Woods with his wife watching the Elk. He was an avid music fan and years ago sang in a few bands. He was well versed in the study of both karate and jiu-jitsu.

John loved to prepare culinary treats for his family – from smoking meats to shucking oysters – and ensured everyone was always well fed.

John loved being a grandfather and took pride in his grandchildren. He loved taking them horseback riding, attended wrestling tournaments and football games for his grandson, Tucker, and dance recitals and musicals for his granddaughters. He was such a good sport, allowing his granddaughters to put barrettes and ponies and “decorate” his hair. He will be fondly remembered for the love of his family, especially his children and grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife, Judy D. Hitchcock Eckert; his children, Hunter (Heidi) Eckert, Erik (Brittany) Eckert, Todd (Lisa) Cordner, Tina (Ray) Downey, Tessa (Scott) Brozell; his grandchildren, Giovanni, Emalyn, Vincent, Jonah, Eli, Hunter, Jamie, Preston, Tucker, Evelyn, Aster, Noah; and his siblings, Chuck (Donna) Eckert and Darlene Eckert.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant brother, Jimmy Eckert in 1947.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at Trinity Church, 1230 Wigren Road, Frewsburg, NY 14738 on January 18, 2026 at 2 pm. Service will begin at 2 pm and dinner will follow.

Memorials in John’s name may be made to either St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Children’s Hospital, causes he supported with pride.

Peterson Funeral Home, Frewsburg is handling arrangements.

You may leave a memory of John and words of condolence by visiting www.petersonfh.net.