Michael "Mike" Robert Eckels
January 4, 1984 ~ August 12, 2026
Born in:
Los Alamitos , CA
Resided in:
Weirton , WV
Michael “Mike” Robert Eckels, a vibrant spirit who brightened the lives of many, will be remembered fondly after his untimely passing at his home in Weirton, West Virginia, on August 12, 2026.
Born in Los Alamitos, California, on January 4, 1984, Mike was the cherished only child of Michael and Lori Herkle Eckels.
Throughout his life, Mike exuded warmth and kindness, making friends wherever he went. He found joy in his work as a Manufacturing Associate at Form Energy and in spending time with his friends, developing lifelong relationships. Those who knew him recognized Mike as a true companion, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a hearty laugh.
A motorcycle enthusiast, Mike loved riding his beloved Road King and eagerly participated in local Poker Runs. His spirit shone particularly brightly during Bike Week in Myrtle Beach each May. Music was another source of joy for Mike; he delighted in the timeless sounds of Classic Rock-N-Roll and old country music and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Mike’s love extended deeply to his “adopted” family, especially Aidan, Hannah (Anthony), Kendal, and Owen, the beloved children and grandchild of his life partner, Heather. His kindness and easy-going nature made an indelible impression on all who crossed his path.
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Jack Herkle; paternal grandfather, David Eckels, Jr.; and uncles Robert Herkle and David Eckels III.
Left to cherish his memory are his life partner, Heather Apesos; maternal grandmother, Dorothy Herkle; and paternal grandmother, Delores Eckels; Aunt Leslie Hopkins, Aunt Deborah A. (James) Wilson, and Uncle Mark L. (Annie) Eckels, and many cousins and friends.
Friends can visit Mike’s family on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 2-4 and 6- 8 p.m., at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton, WV.
Mike’s request for cremation will be honored. He will be cremated at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home Crematory.
Memorial Services for Mike will be at the convenience of his family.
He will be inurned at St. Paul’s Cemetery, Weirton.
Share condolences at www.grecohertnick.com.
Services
Public Viewing: August 22, 2026 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Greco Hertnick Funeral Home
3219 Main Street
Weirton, WV 26062
(304) 748-3219
www.grecohertnick.com
Public Viewing: August 22, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Greco Hertnick Funeral Home
3219 Main Street
Weirton, WV 26062
(304) 748-3219
www.grecohertnick.com
We were young in ways we didn’t understand then. We made mistakes, we changed, we went our separate ways. But none of that erases what we meant to each other.
Now you’re gone, and there’s no chance to say the things I thought I’d have more time to say. I hope wherever you are, somehow you know that you mattered. You were a chapter in my life that I will never rewrite, because it helped make me who I am.
I won’t remember you only for how it ended. I’ll remember the laughter, the memories, the love, and the person you were before life carried us in different directions.
Some people become strangers. Some become memories.
And some become a part of you that time can never completely take away.
You were one of those people.
Rest peacefully, old love. I’ll carry the memory of you with me, always.
Michael Robert will be Missed, Remember and Loved all of Our Days