Mary Alice Eckman

Mary Alice Eckman (n?e Ryan) passed away peacefully on Monday, November 27th. Born to the late Robert and Irene Ryan on January 20, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois, she married the late Dr. Thomas Roy Eckman in January, 1958 and for the next 63 years raised three children and spent her life as a selfless, kind, compassionate and altruistic human being. She loved people and relationships, giving her time, talents and support to many.

She is preceded in death by her brother, Robert Ryan, Jr. and her husband of 63 years, Dr. Thomas Roy Eckman.

She is survived by her son, Peter Eckman of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; two daughters, Mary Elise Eckman of Chicago, Illinois and Mary Elizabeth Knelson of Durham, North Carolina, grandson, Ryan Michael Dulude; brother, Donald Ryan; sister, Patricia Crane; many nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be made to Chapel Hill/Carrboro Meals On Wheels (PO Box 2102, Chapel Hill, NC 27515) or Share-Advocate (Good Samaritan Hospital, 3815 Highland Ave., Downers Grove, IL 6051 Attn: Jessica Kincaid).

The Eckman family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences: www.hallwynne.com - select obituaries.