Frederick Arthur Eckardt (Fred), 73, of Leonardtown, MD, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, at St. Mary's Nursing Home, after battling Parkinson's Disease. Born on October 02, 1951 in Pensacola, FL, he was the son of the late Arthur Joseph Eckardt and Joan Barbara (Singer) Eckardt. Fred is survived by his son Scott Eckardt of Melbourne, FL. and siblings Margaret Hammett (Anthony) of Coltons Point, MD, Jonthan Eckardt (Cheri) of Leonardtown, MD, and Mary Susan Sanders (Glenn) of Hughesville, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Fred was a St. Mary's County resident from 1958 until he graduated from Great Mills High School in 1969. Following graduation, he joined the United States Navy and worked his way up to Aviation Structural Mechanic Chief (E-7) and became a P-3 Flight Engineer. He was stationed in multiple P-3 squadrons on the east and west coast, Hawaii, and Rota, Spain. He travelled all over the world as a P-3 flight engineer.
Fred enjoyed running and bicycling. He competed in a triathlon and numerous races. He retired from the Navy after 21 years of distinguished service receiving numerous commendations, metals and ribbons.
After his retirement, Fred lived in Northern California and started a hobby of carving water birds from driftwood he would find on the beach. It became his passion and he created over 60 water birds that many have admired and treasured.

Due to his Parkinson's disease, he spent his last year of life at the St. Mary's Nursing Home in Leonardtown, Md. He enjoyed watching the History Channel and playing bingo. He became friends with all the staff members and everyone enjoyed his company.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 24, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with a prayer service at 10:00 AM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, MD, with Deacon Joe officiating. Interment will follow at Holy Face Church cemetery, Great Mills, MD.

Donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.