Harry R. Eckenrode

Harry R. “Buddy” Eckenrode , 81, of Chambersburg, passed away May 5, 2026 at the Mercy House in Chambersburg.

Born Thursday, June 15, 1944 in the old Chambersburg Hospital in Franklin County, he was the son of the late Harry L. “Bud” Eckenrode and Janet E. Eckenrode.

He was a 1962 graduate of the Shippensburg Area Senior High School.

Buddy worked most of his career as a research and development machine designer at J. Schoeneman Company where he designed and built machines to make the process of manufacturing brand-name men’s suits more efficient. His intuition and ability to make complex machinery without a formal engineering education was impressive.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Carol A. (Shuman) Eckenrode, whom he married February 23, 1963; one daughter, Denise M. (Anthony) Kreiger, Shippensburg; one son, Shawn Eckenrode, Mechanicsburg; three grandchildren, Nicole L. Nolan, of Fayetteville, Rachel R.

Eckenrode of New Orleans and H. Alexander Eckenrode of Pittsburgh; two great grandchildren, Sienna Scott and Kailee Nolan of Fayetteville.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Buddy was devoted to his family and lived in and for every moment. Always ready to tell a side splitting tale, sing a catchy song, cook and eat a delicious meal, or enjoy a complex glass of wine or bourbon and a fine cigar.

A lifelong music lover, Buddy played the clarinet, tenor saxophone, and guitar. He loved to listen to all types of music, but was particularly fond of jazz and jazz fusion. He passed on his love of music to his children and grandchildren, most of whom play an instrument today.

He loved the mountains and spending time at the family cabin where he enjoyed long walks in the woods with his wife and his “best friend” Winston. He also enjoyed miles and miles of long motorcycle rides through the mountains.

Buddy was a lifelong learner and an avid reader of non-fiction including history, literature, and biographies of famous and not so famous people - especially musicians and musical groups.

A precise and ruthless pool shooter, he would frequently win the game without even giving you a shot! Buddy loved to socialize with his friends as a member of the Hub City Club in Shippensburg and the Chambersburg Club in Chambersburg.

He loved to sample what life had to offer and has tried his hand at hunting, fishing, sailing, kayaking, hiking, running, biking, traveling, wood carving, painting, glasswork, mosaics, lawn and garden artwork, and making mobiles from a variety of products. The art work that he has left behind will be cherished by his family for generations.

A graveside service will be held Friday, May 15, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the Spring Hill Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Fogelsanger-Bricker Funeral Home & Crematorium Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.fogelsanger-brickerfuneralhome.com.