Melvin Lee Eckard, 84 of Newark died tragically Tuesday, April 5, 2022 at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus.  He was born January 7, 1938 in Amesville, Athens County, Ohio to the late Charles Albert and Zola Juanita Triplett.

Melvin retired from Kaiser Aluminum in 2003, where he had worked in maintenance.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having enlisted on August 28, 1961 at Fort Hayes in Columbus,  and served two years in Frankfurt, Germany. Melvin had a wonderful quirky sense of humor and an incredibly adventurous spirit. He was a very private individual who thoroughly enjoyed nature, history and the love of his family. Melvin was an expert mechanic, carpenter and avid treasure hunter. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.

Survivors include his sons, Matthew Eckard, Jason Eckard; a daughter, Loralea Smith; grandchildren, Olivia Smith, Noah Smith, Tyler Eckard and Kiley Eckard; a brother, Dan Eckard; a sister, Bonnie Ricciardo; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his brother Gary.

In accordance with Melvin's wishes there will be no service or calling hours.

Vensil & Chute Funeral Home – Newark Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.