Obituary of Irene P. Eckert

Irene P. Eckert, loving Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend, entered into eternal life on July 8, 2021 at the age of 92. She was greeted with open arms at the gates of Heaven by her recently deceased, adored Son-in-law, Glenn A. Wilder, (2/9/21). Irene started her journey on earth with very humble beginnings. She was born on a dirt farm in Calabria Italy and immigrated to the United States 87 years ago. She grew up in the Bronx NY and eventually, in 1962, moved to Huntington, Long Island where she raised her family and established a successful career in education. Irene taught Social Studies and Psychology for the Northport School District for 35+ years. She was highly respected and adored by her coworkers and students. Up until her passing, she remained active in the Retired Teachers Association, and kept close contact and friendships with many former students. Irene was affectionately referred to as “Hurricane Eckert” by her students. She earned her Bachelors of Arts in Education from Hunter College, NYC, in 1951. Dedicated and committed to the acquisition of knowledge and ongoing education, she went on to earn a Masters of Arts from Hunter College, NYC, in 1961 and A Master’s of Arts in Liberal Studies from Stony Brook University, NY, in 1978. Irene is survived by her 3 loving children; son Richard A. Eckert and wife Jane, daughter Michelle “Mickey” Wilder, daughter Stephanie Metz and husband Robert; her 4 adoring granddaughters, Megan L. Wider, Katie J. Wagner and husband Robert, Lexie R. Wilder and Rachel M. Metz; and sister Josephine Perez. She also leaves behind many loved nieces, nephews and MANY devoted friends; too many to name. Irene was a true visionary and Renaissance lady. Her passion for knowledge and travel led her to excursions all over the globe. She visited over 60 countries in her lifetime, studying the history and culture of the country. She easily made friends and a lasting impact wherever she went. The knowledge acquired on her travels was always applied for self-improvement, self-awareness and sharing with her students, family and friends. Restless and with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and mind stimulating activities, after retiring from education, Irene became Long Islands premier film historian. She regularly taught classes at local libraries and colleges on old film classics. Just four weeks prior to her passing, Irene taught a 6 week course at CW Post. Her other passions and activities in retirement included spending time with children and grandchildren, socializing with her friends, reading, going to Broadway plays, visiting museums, watching her favorite show Jeopardy, and of course traveling. It can surely be said that Irene lived life passionately and to the fullest. Besides her love and devotion to God, family and friends, Irene will be most remembered for her larger than life personality and her fierce spirit. Words used by family and friends to describe her are: one of a kind lady, unique, confident, opinionated, fearless, funny, sometimes loud, smart and worldly. Irene definitely left a lasting impact that will remain forever on all those who had the privilege to know her. She will be truly missed by all!! 2 Timothy 4:7-8 “ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day.” VISITATION Wednesday, July 14, 2021 2:00 pm-6:00 pm M.A. Connell Funeral Home 934 New York Avenue, Huntington Station, NY 11746 FUNERAL MASS Thursday, July 15, 2021 9:30 am St. Hugh of Lincoln Catholic Church 21 E. 9th Street, Huntington Station, NY 11746 INTERMENT Thursday, July 15, 2021 11 am Saint Patrick’s Cemetery 45 Huntington Road, Huntington, NY 11743 DONATIONS CHD Coalition 45 Carey Avenue 250, Suite#250 Butler, NJ 07405 973-850-6362