Dateline: Alton
Heading: Richard "Rick" Eccles Jr.

Richard Franklin "Rick" Eccles Jr., 73, died at 6:15 p.m. Sunday, May 7, 2017 at DePaul Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Born October 17, 1943 in Alton, he was the son of Richard F. Eccles Sr. and Lelia (Down) Eccles. Rick graduated from Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville. He served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He worked at the Olin pistol range, taught conceal and carry classes and was a member of the NRA. He worked as superintendent of recreation for Alton Park and Recreation and later retired from SIUE. Surviving is a daughter Karen Eccles of Alton, a son, Darren Eccles of Cleveland, OH, a sister, Cynthia Renee Eccles of Florissant, MO and extended family and friends. Along with this parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Ann Eccles. Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 10, 2017 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton where funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 11, 2017 with full military honors by the VFW Post 1308. Pastor Bill Veith will officiate. Burial will be private. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com