John Laurence Eckert, 87, died March 18, 2021, at Hospice House, Hutchinson.  He was born June 21, 1933, in rural Gunnison County, CO, to John and Ellen Margaret (Querbach) Eckert.

John graduated from Hanston High School in 1951, and attended Dodge City Community College and Fort Hays State University.   He received his bachelor's degree from KU, followed by his master's degree from Emporia State Teacher's College.  John taught in Cimarron and Winfield.  He retired following a long career from Hutchinson High School in 1993, where he taught biology and chemistry.

John was a member of the Hutchinson-Reno Masonic Lodge #124 A.F. & A.M. and was a 33 ^rd Degree Master Mason. He was an avid traveler, and enjoyed hiking in the western states.  John also traveled to Alaska, and delighted in traveling on several Windjammers Caribbean Cruises.    He was a member of Fairview United Methodist Church., rural Nickerson.

John is survived by:  sister, Joanne Whelchel of Dodge City; granddaughter, Crystal Hoffert of Hays; and nephews, John Whelchel of Aurora, CO, and Chris Whelchel of Dodge City.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, David.

Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 14, 2021, at Hanston Cemetery, Hanston.  Masonic honors will be presented at the graveside service.  Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice House, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS  67501.