Jerald Alan Eckhoff

Jerald (Jerry) Alan Eckhoff, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on August 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on December 24, 1960, in Joliet, Illinois, Jerry was a beacon of kindness, compassion and diligence, whose memory will forever warm the hearts of those who knew him. Jerry was the beloved son of the late Norman and Ella Eckhoff and grew up in a loving family alongside his siblings, the late Bonnie Borms, David Eckhoff, and his surviving brother Jeff (Gayle) Eckhoff of Tuttle, OK. He graduated from Manteno High School, Manteno, Illinois in 1979 and embarked on a successful life-long career in the transportation industry, traveling across the United States and leaving a positive impact wherever he went. A devoted member of the Lutheran church, Jerry's faith was a guiding force throughout his life. He was known for his remarkable kindness and willingness to lend a hand, never seeking recognition or acknowledgment in return. He also had a special talent for making caramel popcorn and could often be found arriving with a paper bag or two to share—a simple gesture of generosity that family and friends will fondly remember. Above all, Jerry loved his family. His three children, Charles and Leah Eckhoff of Blanchard, OK; Kate and Tyler Hickman of Kellyville, OK; and Anna and Zach Rundell of Jenks, OK, were the center of his world. He was an immensely proud and devoted grandfather to six grandchildren: Zane and Tess Eckhoff, Grayson and Sutton Hickman, and Leo and Weston Rundell. Few things brought him greater happiness than driving countless miles to watch his grandchildren participate in their many activities. He treasured every opportunity to show up, cheer them on, and simply be with them. Jerry is also survived by his former spouse, Barbara, with whom he shared many years and, most importantly, the joy of raising their three children. She, along with their family, will forever cherish the memories they created together. Jerry also loved hosting his annual Wing Fest, a tradition that brought family and friends together for good food, laughter, and fellowship. Like so many things Jerry did, it was less about the event itself and more about bringing together the people he loved. A celebration of Jerry's life will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church, 1032 NW 12th St., Moore, Oklahoma 73160. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Jerry's memory. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Grace Hospice in Tulsa for the compassion, dignity, and care provided to Jerry during his final days. Jerry will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steadfast faith, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family. He showed his love not only through words, but by being there and helping when someone needed him, traveling the miles to support those he loved, sharing a bag of caramel popcorn, and finding joy in bringing people together. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.