Daniel Duane Eckert

Daniel Duane Eckert, affectionately known as “Danny, Dan-O, Big D, and Pop Pop” to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024, in his hometown of San Mateo, California after a valiant fight with cancer. Born on August 21, 1956, to Nancy Eckert and Duane Eckert, Danny was known for his quick wit and his love for the outdoors, sports and family. 

Danny was a proud, fourth generation San Matean whose early years were spent in the shadow of Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe with the company of his siblings, Lori, Tom and David. Danny’s love of Lake Tahoe would last a lifetime. Danny attended St. Matthews Catholic School, as was the family tradition started in the mid 1930’s by his mom and continuing with his own children. He graduated from Junipero Serra High School in 1974. In 1983, Danny married his high school sweetheart, Lisa Thomas. Together they created a family, whom he loved with every fiber of his being.

Danny loved anything to do with his cherished teams- the Giants, Warriors and Forty Niners. He pursued his passion for football by announcing and score-keeping for the College of San Mateo (CSM) Football team. Danny was also a member of two CSM Adaptive PE classes for more than 15 years. He was beloved by his peers at CSM for his gregarious, inclusive nature and was appreciated by those he came in contact with.

Danny was dealt a very challenging hand early in life. He handled his multiple sclerosis, stroke, and cancer with remarkable strength and courage. Despite his struggles, Lisa’s undying devotion and his girls’ strength helped him through his disease. His wit and humor kept him and those around him laughing and in good spirits throughout his life. Danny’s enduring, positive attitude will be remembered by all.

Danny’s memory is honored and kept alive by his loving hero of a wife, Lisa, his children, Danielle (Nathan) Ripaldi and Hailey (Michael) Carter, his grandchildren Jackson Carter, Rhys Ripaldi, and one granddaughter on the way, his sister Lori (Frank Johnson) Eckert, brother Tom (Lindee) Eckert, brother David Eckert, nephews, Glen Eckert and Travis Eckert, niece Marlo McCrary, grand-nephews and nieces, cousins, classmates, colleagues, neighbors, his devoted friends including Scott Kelly, and his beloved dog Sparky. Danny was loved deeply by all he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at www.nationalmssociety.org. 

A private celebration of life will be held at the end of August.