John August Eckel “Pete”, 91, of Largo, Florida passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. John was born on February 12, 1929 in Newark, New Jersey, the son of John August “Gus” Eckel and Florence Agle Eckel.
He grew up in North Arlington, New Jersey and graduated from North Arlington High School. John served in the US Army. John was a third generation baker. Beginning in 1955, he owned and operated The American Bakery in South River, New Jersey. His career included working for Continental Baking Company (Hostess). In 1971 he moved his family from Westport, Connecticut to Dunedin, Florida where he founded Eckel Baking Company, a wholesale bakery that manufactured and distributed Twinkies and the Jingles snack cake line in the Southeast. John received a patent for his unique rapid cupcake icing and wrapping system. Retiring in 1984, John and Janet enjoyed traveling, boating and fishing together. They particularly enjoyed the Bahamas, finding a favorite port of call in Abaco. John was a member of Indian Rocks Baptist Church in Largo, Florida. He was a 33rd degree Mason. John was devoted to his Lord and to his family. He enjoyed making people laugh, and was on unseen helper to many.
John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Janet Eileen Kington Eckel, his parents, his sister, Janice Eckel Cobb, and his grandson, John Eckel Leiser. He is survived by his children Kurt Eckel (Peggy) of Sandy Mush, North Carolina, J. Kent Eckel of Largo, Florida, Karol-Lynn Eckel Leiser (Len) of Stafford, Virginia; grandchildren Ashley Eckel Willis (Travis) and Len Leiser (Yukari); and great-grandchildren Ellison, Josie, Hana and Kai.
A private family service will be held. Arrangements by Veterans Funeral Care of Clearwater, Florida.
I’ve never known a better man!