Franklin D. "Bernie" Eckley

Franklin D. “Bernie” Eckley, 71, of Bellefonte passed away at Mount Nittany Medical Center on Tuesday, January 5, 2021. Frank was born in Bellefonte on July 9, 1949. Surviving at home is his wife Susan K. Sassman Eckley. Susan was his high school sweetheart, and they shared 49 close years together. Along with his wife he is survived by his daughter, Emily Eckley of Zion, his brother, Donald (Sally) Eckley of Butler and his sister, Deb Eckley-Wilson of Bellefonte. Frank is also survived by his brother-in-law Doug Sassman and his wife Cindy of Bellefonte. He was pre-deceased by his parents Donald and Elga Georgiva Eckley and his brother Fred Eckley.
Frank was a 1967 graduate of Bellefonte High School. All of Frank’s work life involved the development and production of electronic piezo ceramics. He was co-founder of Nittany Piezo Ceramics in Bellefonte and also American Piezo Ceramics, Inc. He was a life-member of the Bellefonte Elks Lodge #1094. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, trips to camp, mind puzzles and watching Penn State and Pittsburgh sports. He was an avid reader and enjoyed rides in the country with his family. Frank was of the Protestant faith.
Services and burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, 1375 Martin Street, Suite 206, State College, PA 16803 or St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 in memory of Franklin D. Eckley.

Arrangement are under the direction of the Dean K. Wetzler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Inc., 201 Spring Street, Milesburg. An online guest book may be signed and condolences sent to the family at
www.deankwetzlerfuneralhome.com