Thomas Henry Eckenrode
Tom Eckenrode, 63, passed away Monday, January 11, 2021, in the comfort of his home in Canonsburg.
He was father to Ryan Thomas (Amanda), Vanessa (Pierre Bizier) and Steven. Tom was blessed with four grandchildren, Leanna, Adelyn, Henry (Ryan) and Victoria (Vanessa).
He was born in Mt. Lebanon August 29, 1957, to John P. “Jack” and the late Margaret Eckenrode of Canonsburg, and is survived by his 11 siblings, John (the late Pam), Debbie (Rick) Lawson, Bob (Linda), Mary (Mark) Mikec, Chuck (Claudia), Cindy (Chuck) Evanoski, Janet (Gary) Wall, Judy (Rob) Asbell, Susie (Dave) Rendulic, Brian (Kelly) and Ken (Kelly). The mother of his children, Kimberly Keating Wohlford, survives him.
Tom graduated from Clarion University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. degree in Business and as a Second Lieutenant in the Army after participating in ROTC. He served a year in Korea before being stationed at Fort Ord in Monterey, Calif. He was in the inactive reserve for several years before retiring as a Captain. Tom was a proud member of the 101st Airborne Division and the Military Officers of America, where he served as a vice president. He also experienced a career in sales that included positions with Pfizer, Comcast and food service distribution.
He was happiest spending time with family, and always looked forward to family reunions and other gatherings. Often seen as the life of the party, one would long remember his smile while telling jokes. Tom enjoyed the adventure of travel, especially when it involved visiting his children and grandchildren.
While living in Canonsburg, he liked to spend time with friends at the senior center. Tom found great solace in church, often attending services at multiple churches on Sunday, or watching live broadcasts from home.
A visitation for family and close friends, followed by small Catholic service, will be held from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Friday, January 15, in Pittsburgh Cremation and Funeral Care, 3287 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, (724) 260-5546. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 a.m. Friday, January 22, in St. Patrick Church, 317 W. Pike Street, Canonsburg, PA 15317. Tom will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to either the local Meals on Wheels via https://www.cbgministerial.com/donate or The Veteran’s Leadership Program at https://www.veteransleadershipprogram.org/donate.