Obituaries

Ruth L. Ecklin, 55

March 20, 2018

Ruth L. Ecklin, 55, of Lancaster, passed away at Hershey Medical Center on March 20, 2018 after a long battle with cancer. Born in Decatur, Alabama, she was the daughter of James R. Lewis and Linda (Lang) Lewis. She was the loving wife of Robert L. Ecklin, Jr. with whom she shared over 30 wonderful years of marriage.
Ruth spent most of her childhood in Alabama before her family moved north to Pleasant Valley, Iowa where she completed high school. She went on to attend University of Iowa where she received her Bachelors in Marketing. She moved to Lancaster in 1984 for a position at Armstrong World Industries working in sales, training, and recruitment for their flooring department.
In 1987, she married the love of her life, Rob Ecklin, and together they had four beautiful daughters; Sara, Caroline, Morgan, and Emma, that became her everything.
Ruth was a woman that wore many hats. On top of being a full-time mother, she was the owner of Pappagallo and Details in downtown Lancaster. A member of the Hamilton Club, Lancaster Country Club, and a volunteer for Lancaster Education Foundation (LEF), she willingly gave her time to a variety of local organizations. Ruth was a huge advocate for Lancaster City. She loved gardening, decorating, and traveling with her husband and daughters. She especially loved her family trips to Disney, Stone Harbor, and Deep Creek Lake where family boating and water skiing were always a summer highlight.
Ruth is survived by her husband, Robert L. Ecklin, Jr., and daughters; Sara Ecklin Tuscher, wife of Ryan J., of Lancaster, Caroline L. Ecklin, of Lancaster, Morgan M. Ecklin, of Orlando, FL, and Emma G. Ecklin who currently attends Wake Forest University. She is also survived by her parents, James R. and Linda (Lang) Lewis, of Decatur, AL and a sister Jaida (Lewis) Chase and her husband Dana, of Huntsville, AL. Ruth will be greatly missed by all that knew her.
Ruth’s Memorial Service will be held at 1PM on Saturday April 7th, 2018 at Covenant United Methodist Church 110 N. Mulberry St., Lancaster, PA 17603. Family will receive guests prior to the service from 11:30AM to 1PM at the church. The Ecklin’s will also receive guests at a reception following the service. Memorial contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or to the Four Diamonds at Penn State Children’s Hospital 1249 Cocoa Avenue, Suite 115 P.O. Box 852 Hershey, PA 17033.

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Condolences to the Family

January 14, 2019

I am truly sorry for your loss i just heard about her passing you were always a good and honest boss.life is to short,praying for your family🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

April 29, 2018

I just heard the news of Ruth’s passing.  We were cheerleaders together at Pleasant Valley.  I still remember her 16th birthday party at The Plantation restaurant, an apt place for a true Southern belle, who exuded grace and charm.   My memories of her are of a beautiful, talented person who had a lovely smile and sense of style. How sad I am to hear of her passing.  May her spirit and love continue to bring you comfort both now and in the future.  May God give you His peace that truly passes all understanding and comfort you with His love. 
 
Tammy Scharff
 

April 17, 2018

I am so sorry for your loss, I worked for ruth many years ago when she opened stoner decorating center. I recently seen her at Ann bassiger for I was there with my husband. My prayers to your family’s . Michele Graeff 

April 07, 2018

Tom and I were terribly saddened to learn of Ruth’s passing. She was exceptional role model for your four beautiful daughters and other young women in the community seeking to grow and nurture both careers and families. Hold on to all your wonderful memories as they will sustain you through this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jan Bergen

April 07, 2018

Rob and family,
Ruth worked so very diligently to serve the schools your daughters attended. We worked together at the Wheatland Middle School PTO. She was a true blessing to know. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Stephen Hohenwarter and Gail Scott
 

April 07, 2018

Dear Bob, Sara, Caroline, Morgan, Emma, James and Linda,
it is with great sadness that I read of Ruth’s passing.  As the former Principal of Buchanan Elem., I know how dedicated Ruth was to her family and the School” Family.”  May you all find comfort by remembering each and every memory you will have for a lifetime until you are with your loved one again.  Mrs. Debra Leese, Retired Principal of Buchanan 

April 05, 2018

Rob and family…
We are praying for you all and please accept our deepst condolences.  We are grateful to have spent time together, short as it was. 
God bless the Ecklin, Lewis and Tuscher families.
Barbara and Terry Ford

April 05, 2018

Rob and family. So sorry for your loss. May you all be comforted by the sweet memories that you have. Your family is in my prayers at this very sad time.
Laurie Robinson

April 04, 2018

Ecklin’s and Lewis’
My heart is saddened by the loss of my childhood and family friend, Ruth.  We were friends in AL from the time Ruth was 4 years old on through college  She called me “Big Sis” since I am 3 yrs older.  I’m so sorry for your loss, and have you in my prayers.  With love, sharon McRae-Wellner

April 04, 2018

Rob and Family, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Ruth’s passing. She was always full of life, so vibrant, and active in so many endeavors. We will always remember her sparkle and grace, and send our deepest sympathies to all of you.Bless you all.Noreene & Mike Sweeney

April 04, 2018

To: Mr. Ecklin, Sara, Caroline, Morgan & EmmaWith deepest sympathy. From: Miss Eloise

April 03, 2018

Dear Ecklin Family,
Please accept our sincerest Condolences for your most precious loss.  
Respectfully Yours,
David Russell & Family

April 01, 2018

Art and I are extremely saddened by the news of Ruth’s death.  We send our deepest sympathies to Rob, the kids and her family.    
Sincerely, Mary Lumsden

March 31, 2018

My deepest sympathy at this time of loss your in my prayers- Donna Moyer
 

March 30, 2018

to ecklin family i am sorry to hear about ruth she was a very nice lady i give my condolences prayers are with yous susie centini

March 30, 2018

Dear Rob and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very hard time.
Phil & Carol Wolgemuth

March 30, 2018

Rob, Sara, Caroline, Morgan,Emma,
I am so sorry for your loss.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.  
With deepest sympathy,
Charlene Martin

March 29, 2018

Dear Rob;  Chris and I want you and the entire Ecklin family to know of our deepest sorrow for your loss.  Our sympathies and prayers are with you and your family at this time.  
Steven and Chris Phillips
Sullivan’s Island, SC

March 29, 2018

Rob and Family….
 
Please accept our sincere sympathies at this sad time. Cherish each other and the time you have together.
Our deep condolences to all of you.
 
Bob and Karen Ramsay

March 29, 2018

Rob & family,
I am truly sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. 
With sincere sympathy,
Ellie Schopf

March 28, 2018

Rob, Sara, Caroline, Morgan and Emma.  Joe and I send our deepest sympathy to all of you. I will always remember that beautiful smile and laugh. Ruth was always so kind and willing to help anyone.  The horse show memories will always stay with us.  Prayers and love to all.
Joe & Kyle Kealey

March 28, 2018

I have so many happy memories of my sweet niece! Ruth, Chris and I used to make “boats” out of anything we could find and race them down a creek near her childhood home in Decatur, AL. We used to water ski as often as we could on the Tennessee River. She was always full of fun and kind to her core! God bless and comfort her family! – Angela L. Jones

March 28, 2018

Rob and Daughters 
You and the girls are in our thoughts and prayers. May you and the girls be comforted by the many memories you made as a family.
Ou heartfelt condolences. 
Bruce and Sallie Augenstein 

March 27, 2018

Rob and Family, I was shocked and saddened when I saw Ruth’s obit in the Sunday News.  I have fond memories of Ruth when she was ‘introduced’ to Quarryville and was active with the  Quarryville Chamber of Commerce. Unfortunately we had not seen Ruth for many years.  Our hearts go out to you and your family on such a tragic loss.  Scott, Mary & Marla Peiffer, Quarryville

March 27, 2018

Ecklin Famiy,
My deepest condolences to the entire family.
Barry, Stacey, Ben and Madelyn Waddell

March 27, 2018

Rob, Sara,Caroline,Morgan, Emma & Mr & Mrs Lewis
My heart is with you at this sorrowful time. 
Mary Campbell

March 27, 2018

Rob and girls,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Ruth’s constant involvement and endless support of everything Lancaster, the school district and the families’ kids who grew up with your kids has been inspiring. Our hearts are with yours. 
Condolences,
The McRoberts’ family (Eric, Roxanne, Alexa, Kahla, Dayna & Sean)

March 27, 2018

What a beautiful tribute to Ruth’s life. I still can’t believe she’s gone; it’s just surreal.  Ruth and all of the family have been in our prayers and will continue to be. We love you all so much…our hearts are just broken!  May God give you all comfort at this time of grief.  I will see you all soon.
Love, Sara Ruth Lewis Lanza & family

March 27, 2018

Rob, Sara, Caroline, Morgan, Emma,
We were so sad and sorry to hear of the passing of your wife and mother, Ruth. She was such a wonderful sweet light. We pray for your peace and comfort, and knowing that the love sustain you.  Our condolences to you all during this time of loss. Please know that many are thinking of and praying for you.   
Hunt and Annie Friedrichs  

March 27, 2018

I was saddened to read of Ruth’s passing.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Barry Solodky

March 26, 2018

So sorry to hear of Ruths passing. Our prayers for comfort at this time. Dale and Doris Boyce.
 

March 26, 2018

My thought an prayers go out to the Ecklin family

March 26, 2018

Ecklin Family,
Rob so sorry to hear of your loss.  I know Ruth will be missed.  We wil keep you and your family in our prayers. 
Ken and Cythia Witte First United Bank & Trust.

March 26, 2018

Jim this is cousin Jerry Ford.  So sorry to hear of your loss.  You and your family are in our prayers.

March 26, 2018

My deepest condolences to the entire family.  May your grief and sorrow be softened by beautiful memories.
Betty Burson

March 26, 2018

Ecklin Family,
May our Lord bless and comfort you at this time of grief. Jim and Linda always spoke highly of Ruth and your family.  I know she will be greatly missed. Please accept my sincerer condolences.
James Rieger
 
 

March 26, 2018

Ecklins,
We are deeply saddened to hear about Ruth’s passing. I worked with her when she was on the board at the Lancaster Museum of Art and remember her to be gracious, tenacious and great fun to be with. Please know that she was admired and respected by so many.
Fondly, Tricia and Alan Fackler

March 25, 2018

Rob and Family:
I know it was a struggle for all of you and you gave Ruth great support.  I am sure she felt your love and devotion.
With deepest sympathy to a great family;
Ron and Dee Smith

March 25, 2018

I was so saddened today to read of Ruth’s passing.  She was always a kind and gracious lady.  I so enjoyed working with her at Pappagallo.  While we lost touch, each time I drive  past the house I think of her.  My condolences to Rob and the girls.  She will be missed by many. 
Lizz Todd-Keppel

March 25, 2018

I am so sorry to hear of mrs. Ecklin’s passing. Thinking of you all- Leslie (Kubala) Leed 

March 25, 2018

Ruth was one of the finest women I have had the honor of knowing. She will be missed by so many in the Lancaster community, especially by her close friends and family. Heartfelt condolences to Rob, Sara, Caroline, Morgan and Emma. 
Carol de Wet and Family

March 25, 2018

Dear Ecklin Family,  there are no words to express my sincere sadness in the passing of Ruth.  What a beautiful, caring and wonderful person.  I will never forget the many years I worked for your Family, it was truly one of the greater joys in my life.  Deepest condolences and thoughts are with all of you, and a big thank you to Ruth for everything she taught me. 
Evelyn

March 25, 2018

To Rob and and Family:  Karen and I were shocked to learn of the sad news of Ruth’s passing.  We all go back a few years and our friendship with the Ecklin Family has always been very special.  Our deepest sympathy to the whole family and you will be in our daily thoughts and prayers.
Bill and Karen Hobbs
Pinehurst, NC

March 25, 2018

Ecklin Family,
Our heartfelt condolences on Ruth’s passing…a wonderfully generous & gracious woman. 
Dick & Ceil Treiss

March 25, 2018

Rob, I am so sorry to hear of you and your family’s loss…Ruth was such a lovely woman and I pray the Holy Spirit will comfort your family and will continue to pray as your family comes to mind…Mary Ellen Kauffman Miller.

March 25, 2018

Deepest sympathy to all the family and friends. She must have been a peach of a person, wife and mother.
Bill Houck

March 24, 2018

We can not articulate our sorrow for this loss.  A beautiful light darkened way too soon.  You are in our hearts, in our thoughts, and in our prayers.  We unite with you in this deep sorrow and cannot wait to hold you close.  
All our love is with you,
Sue and Anne

March 24, 2018

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you!
Fondly,
Ed & Heidi Burton & Family
 

March 24, 2018

Rob:
We are so sad about Ruth’s passing. 
Please accept our heartfelt condolences. 

March 24, 2018

Thoughts to all of you in this tough time. I have many fond memories of Ruth and the Lewis family.
Bob Miller

March 24, 2018

Rob, Sara, Caroline, Morgan, Emma and Family, we are so sorry for your loss. Ruth will be dearly missed by all who knew her. May her light continue to shine through each of you as you carry her spirit with you throughout your lives. Our prayers for you and your family and that she is at eternal rest and peace with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ so that we may all rejoice again with her in Heaven. 
 
Tom McCarty and Family

March 24, 2018

Ruth was a great mom, contributor to the community and supporter of our schools. Her outstanding parenting is seen in the successes and maturity of her daughters, Especially Emma, whom I have seen grow from a dynamic middle schooler to a thriving collegian. Ruth brought class and energy to everything she did and she has left an indelible imprint on Lancaster.  Jay Butterfield

March 24, 2018

Rob,
I’m sorry to hear of Ruth’s passing.  I remember when the two of you met.  You and your family are in my thoughts and I’m sending love and peace to you all.  Take care.
Mark Jackson
Lancaster

Visitation
Saturday, April 07, 2018
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Covenant United Methodist Church
110 N. Mulberry Street
Lancaster, PA 17603
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Services
Saturday, April 07, 2018
1:00 PM
Covenant United Methodist Church
110 N. Mulberry Street
Lancaster, PA 17603
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