Eckert “Eck” Slaymaker Erb, 84

April 30, 1940 - June 09, 2024

Born on April 30, 1940 to the late Almeda and Eckert S. Erb Sr. in Paradise, PA, Eck would say that being born in Paradise means he is halfway to heaven. On Sunday, June 9, 2024 Eck made it all the way to heaven while in the arms of his cherished wife Beverly and their dog Winnie by his side.

Eck would describe himself as coming from a poor family but it gave him a strong work ethic. At a young age Eck earned income by having backyard carnivals, upselling sardines and crackers to fellow boy scouts or working on local farms. After graduating from Hempfield High School, Eck enlisted with the U.S. Army serving in Korea and receiving an honorable discharge as Sargent.

Eck had a successful 40 year career with the Lancaster Newspaper as the Classified Sales Manager. Eck encouraged his staff with his positive attitude, iconic smiley faces or his catch phrase, “Go Get ‘Em Tiger!” He was optimistic in his multifaceted life and also invested in real estate, co-owned Rock Hill Hotel Restaurant and owned Owl Bridge Farm Dog Training and Dog Park. Eck volunteered with Red Rose Dog Training, the Humane League of Lancaster County and as a mentor for a reading program at H.O. Brittingham Elementary School in Milton, DE.

Eck enjoyed spending time with his family at their beach home in Milton, DE and at their winter home in Cape Coral, FL. He loved collecting time pieces, antique clocks, sports and micro cars. His passion for Hill Climb racing in Carlisle PA, led him to befriending actor Paul Newman, who’s eyes were as blue as Eck’s.

Eck will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Beverly M. Erb, daughter Chris (Sean) Fidler, sister Alice (Tom) McMurray, brother Everett (Charlotte) Erb, sister Mary (Paul) Donecker, granddaughters Samantha and Jane and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his baby brothers, Vernon Lee, Victor Carl and Albert Clayton. He is also survived by daughters Lee Ann and Pat.

There will be no memorial service. Memorial contributions in Eck’s memory can be made to Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster Pa 17601.