Stuart Thomas Ecker
1942 ~ 2024
Captain Stuart Thomas Ecker, age 81, a cherished resident of Wickenburg, Arizona, died in a tragic road accident on July 9th, 2024 near Bozeman, Montana. Born on July 10, 1942, in Canton, Ohio to parents Edgar Norris Ecker and Sue (Thomas) Ecker. There was one sibling, his brother Robert Norris Ecker.
Stu attended high school in Canton, Ohio where he was regarded as a good student and athlete. After high school Stu migrated to Arizona where he earned BS and MS degrees in Engineering at the University of Arizona. Along the way he was smitten with the aviation bug. Stu acquired the entry level FAA ratings and began to build flight time in the extensive general aviation community found in Arizona.
When his ratings and flight time permitted, he applied for employment with major airlines and was granted an interview with Northwest Airlines. Stuart Ecker began his long-time employment with Northwest Airlines on February 27, 1967. Arizona to Minnesota in February must have been a physical shock!
After completing his initial training with NWA, Stu flew as Second Officer (Flight Engineer) on the Boeing 727. Welcome to NWA domestic flying Stu. As seniority and the state of the industry permitted, Stu upgraded to copilot on the 727, followed by second officer, copilot, and captain on the DC-10. This line of career progression included the classic Boeing 747. Stu retired as a captain on the Classic 747.
In retirement Stuart was a dedicated member of the Wickenburg Country Club. He also remained active with general aviation, flying extensively in his Beechcraft V-35 Bonanza.
Stu’s diverse interests extended beyond aviation to hiking, biking, working out, and maintaining his fitness.
He also had a competitive spirit, particularly in playing pegs and jokers. Stuart loved to travel across the U.S. and Canada during the summers with his beloved companion, Peg Ellenberger, with whom he shared 18 wonderful years. His fondness for ice cream and jelly beans brought joy and smiles to many friends.
Stuart was warmly welcomed into Peg’s family and cherished the many friendships he formed throughout his life. He is survived by his loving companion, Peg Ellenberger; niece, Jill K. Rood; and nephew, Robert Scott Ecker.
Stu was preceded in death by his father, Edgar Norris; his mother, Sue Thomas; and his brother, Robert Norris Ecker.
There will be a celebration of life for Stu at Wickenburg Country Club on November 16, at 5:00 pm MST (1700 – pilot time).
Stu you brought many years of technical competence along with humor, friendship and great conversation to your airline colleagues. No doubt the community at Wickenburg, Arizona will also deeply feel the loss of your presence.
(Peg Ellenberger and Bill Day)