Harry Edwin Eckhart

Harry "Lightning" Edwin Eckhart, most commonly referred to as "Edwin" passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at Cumberland Healthcare Center at the age of 97. Born June 17, 1927 in Eckhart, MD, he was the son of the late Charles Finley Eckhart and Helen Doris (Radcliffe) Eckhart.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Audrey K. Eckhart and brother, Dr. Jonathan J. Eckhart.

Edwin is survived by his sister, Edith V. Elvee; his son, John E. Eckhart, and wife Denise; his daughter, Susan E. McNeil, and husband Tom; his grandchildren, Benjamin J Eckhart, Jonna N. Eckhart, Paige N. McNeil and Brooklynn R. McNeil; great grandson, Rokko B. Harper and step great grandson, Kevin Jones.

During his younger years, he worked in the coal mines with his father, managed a farm and drove a dump truck hauling road materials for various construction projects including New Route 40 through Eckhart Mines, MD. He also hauled Kendall oils from Bradford, PA making the trip every three weeks for 17 years. Harry was also a self-employed coal dealer whom delivered house coal to individuals, County Schools and businesses for many years. He owned and managed Eckhart Coal Company from 1974 to 1994 that mined coal by operating an auger machine. Harry loved to read local books on Coal Mining in Allegany County, the Railroad and the C&O Canal and became quite a historian on the evolution of those earlier industries. He enjoyed reaping the vegetables from his annual garden and loved to eat corn nearly every day during the season. He loved talking about his ancestors and would tell numerous stories to family members.

Edwin served in the U.S. Navy on a dry dock in the Philippines during World War II. He was a longtime member of the American Legion and was awarded a 75 year Continuous Member Certificate.

Edwin's family would like to thank all of the friends that took the time to visit with him during his stay at Cumberland Healthcare Center and also all of the professional personnel and staff at the Center that treated him with care and kindness.

He was a firm believer in the Christian faith, read and studied the bible most of his life and looked forward to the resurrection and heavenly reward.

A graveside committal service will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Eckhart Cemetery with Rev. Matt Eichorn officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Edwin's honor can be made to Durst Funeral Home.