Paul Eckel

Paul Eckel of Sarasota, FL, formerly of western New York, died on October 6, 2024, at the age of 92. Beloved husband of 72 years to Joyce Eckel, Paul will be remembered for his business acumen, philanthropy, and care for his family. Paul began his career in Detroit working in the finance department at General Motors. He then moved to East Aurora, joining Moog Inc as Treasurer. The real fun began for Paul when he and his business partner, Charles Balbach, purchased Science Kit, a small Tonawanda business that provided science supplies to schools. Paul enjoyed growing the company to serve students of all grades and across science disciplines. In retirement, Paul and Joyce settled in Sarasota, FL, where he honed his skills as a trophy-winning tarpon fisherman and took up sailing. When not fishing and boating in Florida, he and Joyce enjoyed skiing in Snowmass, CO, and he reluctantly hung up his skis at age 85. They spent summers at Crescent Beach in Fort Erie, Canada, bringing family together to enjoy water sports, raising chickens, and hosting the annual Crescent Beach Sandcastle Contest. In addition to these pursuits, Paul turned his focus to philanthropy via a foundation he and Joyce created, providing financial support for medical research, the arts, and community projects in the US and abroad. He and Joyce also helped to fund college educations for their granddaughters, nieces, nephews, and many others. Besides Joyce, Paul is survived by two generations of women: two daughters--Charlotte (Michael) Blaney and Nancy (John) Boulden--and five granddaughters--Megan (Aaron) Littlejohn, Cristin Blaney, Katy (Vismer Diaz) Falletta, Ellie Falletta, and Charley (Edward Lowe) Falletta. He is also survived by four great grandchildren--Arlo Diaz-Falletta, Brooks Littlejohn, Charley Lowe, and Mateo Diaz-Falletta—and his brother, David Eckel. At this time there is no memorial service planned. Following Paul's spirit of giving, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity or a gift to a student’s college fund.

Tributes

Paul Eckel

October 6, 2024