Lee Eckert

Lee Eckert, a towering figure in the world of sporting goods sales, passed away on December 7, 2025, at The University of Kansas Health System at the age of 85. He was born on May 6, 1940, in Horton, Kansas, the son of Andrew and Ethel (Reynolds) Eckert. Lee was a man who not only left his mark on the individuals who knew him, but also on the landscape of local athletics through his six-decade career.

Visitation with the family will be held at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Funeral services will take place at St. Joseph Church on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon to follow in the lower level of the church. Private family burial will take place at St. Ann’s Cemetery in Effingham. Memorials may be left to St. Benedict Catholic School (SBCS) or the Atchison County Community Schools Education Fund (ACCSEF) in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. 

As a graduate of Atchison County Community High School in 1958, Lee embarked on a life journey that would see him spend a remarkable 60 years as a salesman of sporting goods. He began his career at Snowden-Mize Sporting Goods, but it was at Nill Bros. Sports where he truly found his home, dedicating 36 years to serving the community with passion and dedication before retiring in 2021. Lee had an intrinsic ability to connect with people, refining his craft to ensure that everyone – from athletes looking for performance gear to everyday enthusiasts – received more than just products, but memorable experiences. He was also a proud partner of Mueller’s for over thirty years, where he notably could be found every Saturday, reminiscing with his customers and friends.

Those who knew Lee will forever cherish the warmth of his great sense of humor and quick wit. Every Christmas, he delighted in gifting shoes to his family and friends, always selecting the newest and best athletic footwear, instilling excitement and appreciation in every recipient.

A notable player and coach of Men's Slow Pitch Softball, he earned induction into the Softball Hall of Fame in both the ASA and USSSA, leaving an indelible legacy in local sports. He had players and friends from all over the United States even winning the National Championship before passing the bat in 1997.

Lee’s spirit thrived in countless ways. He was a die-hard fan of KU Basketball, often found in front of the television or in the stands cheering on his favorite teams. His love extended beyond mere spectating; he passionately supported his grandchildren at their sporting events. If there weren't sports on, he was indulging in old westerns.

He was married to Ruth (Miller) Eckert, on February 24, 1990, at St. Joseph Church in Atchison. Together, they shared a love that resonated deeply; as he would often remind Ruth, "It's your world, I'm just passing through."

Lee is survived by his wife, Ruth; his children, Doug (Connie) Eckert, Dave (Stacy) Eckert, Denise (Shawn) Vandeloo, and Donna Williams; his brothers, Russell Eckert, Jerry (Rita) Eckert, Jim (Shirley) Eckert, and Mike (Amy) Eckert; his sisters, Karen Bell and Debbie (Mark) Redding; sister-in-law, Theresa Eckert; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He joins in eternal rest his parents, brothers Dennis and Andrew "Vince" Eckert, and sister Evelyn Eckert, as well as sister-in-law Carol Eckert and brother-in-law Ray Bell.