James Gerard Eckman

James Gerard Eckman, 74 of Lakeland, Florida passed away Thursday, March 28, 2024, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

He was born March 1, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Jack Lincoln and Bernice Leona (Gilchrist) Eckman. James has been a resident of this area since 1987. James was a retired First Sergeant in the US Air Force for 35 years. He liked model cars, helping people, listening to music, organizing military affairs, volunteer work, and working in the yard.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years Candace Anne Quirk Eckman; 7 children, Shane Eckman and wife Danielle, Anna Page and husband Jack, Sarah Eckman, Rachel Leviten and husband Joel, Kristyn Abelar-Eckman, Cherish Neff and husband Kristopher and James Lincoln Eckman; 5 siblings, Beverly Howell, John Eckman, Elaine Dadabbo, David Eckman and Angela Linto; 7 nieces and nephews;15 grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at TBA Church 1815 East County Road 540A, Lakeland, Florida 33813. A Graveside service with full military honors will be held 12:30 PM, Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.