Thomas Richard Eckert: A Visionary Architect and Humanitarian
Thomas passed away Nov. 17, 2024, at his home in Columbia Maryland, cared for by his beloved wife, from lung cancer.
Thomas Richard Eckert, an internationally renowned architect whose groundbreaking designs spanned continents and generations, leaves a legacy of iconic structures and deep compassion for humanity.
Born on Jan. 18, 1948, in Burlington, he was the son of Lloyd “Peppy” and Irene (nee Kornhoff) Eckert. Tom grew up in Burlington and was proud of his hometown. No matter where life took him, he always made time to come back and visit family and friends.
Tom began his journey with a commitment to service, proudly serving in the army before transitioning to a distinguished career in architecture. His early work with the Hyatt International design team saw him design and build some of the most iconic Hyatt hotels across Asia, Africa, and Europe, establishing himself as a leader in global design.
The pinnacle of his career came with his role as Project Manager for the U.S. State Department. In this capacity, Tom shaped the architectural landscape of diplomacy, designing and constructing American embassies worldwide. His work became synonymous with elegance, functionality, and cultural sensitivity, creating enduring symbols of America’s presence abroad.
Beyond his professional achievements, Tom was a man of immense generosity and kindness. He was known for sharing his talents, love and compassion with family, friends, neighbors, strangers, and the world at large. His humanitarian spirit was as enduring as the buildings he left behind, reminding all who knew him that true greatness lies in serving others.
In the last seven years of his life, Tom discovered his greatest love, joy and fulfillment in his marriage to Filipino wife, Araceli “RC” Eckert, with whom he shared profound love and happiness. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, peace and mutual respect.
The world will forever remember Thomas Eckert as a gifted architect, a dedicated humanitarian, and a man whose vision and heart shaped not just buildings, but lives as well. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that his impact endures for years to come.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at noon at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Lake Geneva. Other relatives and friends may visit with the family on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, from 11 to 11:45 a.m. at the church. Burial will follow Mass at St. Charles Catholic Cemetery in Burlington.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home is serving the family. Well-wishers may visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.
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