Peter George Eck

July 4, 1952 - January 14, 2022

Peter George Eck was born July 4, 1952 to Vernon A. And Marilyn (Liebst) Eck of Sharon, Kansas. Peter passed away in Hemet, California surrounded by loving family on the morning of January 14, 2022. Peter was 69 years old. Peter was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Carol, son Eric, daughter Bethany and their families including six grandchildren, Carter (Callie), Addison, Vivian, Valerie, Lillian and Luke. Peter and Carol met at a choir practice in Enid, Oklahoma during the summer of 1976. In 1978, after a two-year courtship, they married at their home parish, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. The couple celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary in June of 2021. Peter completed undergraduate studies in music at Wichita State University in Kansas and his master's degree in special education at Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma. He devoted the next 46 years of his life to meeting the needs of special needs students through the integration of music in their educational experience. Peter was an advocate for his students and a profound resource for his fellow educators. In 1997, he was awarded Teacher of the Year from the Hemet chapter of Riverside County Office of Education. Peter was a man of principle and faith throughout his life. He and Carol continued to participate in the music ministry at his parish in Hemet until he was no longer physically able to play the piano. Peter was presented with the Our Lady of Guadalupe Award by the Diocese of San Bernardino in 2019. This award recognizes exemplary generosity, leadership, and service beyond the scope of the parish for the good of the diocese and local civic community. Peter led an active parochial and civic life with membership in the Knights of Columbus approaching 50 years. He also participated in numerous triathlon and marathon events that benefited a wide variety of charitable organizations throughout California. His impact on the community can only be overshadowed by the impact that her made as a loving husband, father and grandpa. The love he passed on through stories and music will forever be remembered and cherished. A viewing will be held for Peter at McWane Funeral Home located at 350 North San Jacinto Street in Hemet, Ca. 92543 between the hours of 4:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. on Monday, January 31st. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Catholic Church located at 26340 Soboba Street in Hemet, Ca. 92544 on the morning of Tuesday, February 1st, at 11:00 A.M. followed by a graveside service in San Jacinto Cemetery located at 2555 South Santa Fe Ave. in San Jacinto, Ca. 92583 The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to their favorite charity in Mr. Peter Eck’s name. support.specialolympics.org