Roy Lee Eckrote, Rehoboth businessman

Roy Lee Eckrote, 70, of Georgetown passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his family Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, at Kent General Hospital. He was born in Hazelton, Pa., March 4, 1949, son of the late Donald and Marie (Broyan) Eckrote.

Mr. Eckrote graduated from Hazleton Senior High School, class of 1967. He then attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University from which he graduated in 1978. Roy served his country in the Army Special Forces during the Vietnam War where he saw combat. He was awarded a Silver Star and four Bronze Stars. Later, he went on to secure the rank of major and helicopter pilot. He made his career as a helicopter pilot and flight safety facilitator. Since retirement, Mr. Eckrote became a small business owner of The Olive Orchard Tasting Room in Rehoboth Beach.

In his spare time, Roy enjoyed woodworking, renovation projects, traveling and doing Sudoku puzzles. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and his dogs and cat. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who will be missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Eckrote was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. Lawrence Mumie; and his sister, Eileen Eckrote. He is survived by his wife, Laura Hannu-Eckrote of Georgetown; sons: Jody Eckrote and his wife Karin of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Toby Eckrote and his wife Krista of Wilmington; grandchildren: Harper, Asher and Cora; brother David Eckrote and his wife Carolyn of Hazleton; sisters: Donna Baker and her husband Paul of Blaine, Wash., and Marie Mumie Paisley of W. Hazleton, Pa.; along with several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held Friday, Dec. 13, from 1 to 2 p.m., at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Dodd-Carey Chapel, 307 N. Bedford St., Georgetown.

In lieu of flowers, donate to or adopt from any local animal shelter in memory of Mr. Eckrote.

Please visit Mr. Eckrote's Life Memorial Webpage and sing his online guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com .