Francis Joseph Eichstadt Jr., 78, died of ALS on April 3, 2020 at his home in Fairfield Township, Ohio.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Karen Ely Eichstadt; son Andrew Eichstadt of Columbus, Ohio; daughter Amy Eichstadt Waun (Scott) of Loveland, Ohio; and son David Eichstadt (Kate) of Northbrook, Illinois.
He is also survived by one brother, John Eichstadt of Houston, Texas; six grandchildren, Makenna Eichstadt, Quinn Lockhart, Abigail and Emily Waun, and Michael and Julia Eichstadt; two sisters-in-law, Margene Ely Dean (Tom) of San Diego, Calif., and Anne Ely Kenlon (Dan) of Portland, Ore.; and one brother-in-law, Joe Ely (Gretchen) of West Lafayette, Ind.
Frank was born Sept. 29, 1941 in St. Joseph, Mo., to Francis J. and Pauline Mackiewicz Eichstadt.
He attended Christian Brothers High School in St. Joseph, graduating in 1959. He studied at St. Joseph Junior College and then went on to the University of Kansas, where he earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees. He completed his academic career at the University of Kansas in 1968, earning his Ph.D in chemical engineering.
He married Karen Margaret Ely on Feb. 1, 1969, in Auburn, Nebr. The couple moved to Martinsville, Va., where Frank began work as a research scientist for DuPont. They moved to Parkersburg, W. V. in 1977, where he continued his work for DuPont until 2004 when he retired.
Over Frank’s long career as a scientist, he played a key role in developing innovative polymers and high-strength materials. His work can be found in many everyday products, from apparel to modern safety equipment and healthcare delivery devices.
When his family was young, Frank applied his love of precision engineering to his hobby of woodworking. He crafted numerous pieces of fine furniture for their home, and his grandchildren continue to use them today. He also enjoyed traveling with his family, visiting national parks all over the United States.
In retirement, Frank and Karen moved to Ohio to be nearer to their children and grandchildren. They became active members of St. Maximilian Kolbe Church. They continued their travels, completing visits to all 50 states and to countries throughout Europe. Frank was a skilled photographer, and his colorful images of spectacular landscapes and historic sites are displayed in their home.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 5720 Hamilton Mason Rd, Liberty Township, OH 45011, on Saturday, August 8, 2020, at 11 AM. Masks and Social Distancing will be required. Burial of ashes will be held at a later date in St. Joseph, Missouri.In memory of Frank’s life, donations may be sent to the charities listed or another.
Matthew 25 MinistriesThe ALS Association Central & Southern Ohio Chapter
1170 Old Henderson Rd Ste 221
Columbus OH 43220