Date of Birth
September 5, 1954
Date of Death
September 17, 2021
Martin Branyan Eck, age 67, of Maple Park, IL, passed away Friday, September 17, 2021, following a battle with a rare disease, Paraneoplastic Syndrome Encephalitis
He was born September 5, 1954, in Chicago, IL, to proud and loving parents, Mathew and Maxine Eck.
Marty grew up on the south side of Chicago and attended local schools. He received his high school diploma from Hubbard High School, but also the heart of Debbie Zelensky.
Marty and Debbie, two high school sweethearts, were united in marriage in 1974 until her passing in 2019. They were blessed with a son Michael, and eventually two grandsons as well. Marty did everything in life for Debbie, and they were the definition of best friends and soulmates.
It is a rare thing to find a soul mate in high school, and rarer still for that love to blossom into 45 years of marriage. Marty celebrated his love for Debbie with everything he did. They moved to Maple Park in 1987 after buying 30 acres and built a home and three barns from scratch.
Following graduation, Marty let his entrepreneur spirit lead him to the beginning of many businesses. After opening his own record store, maintenance shop, restaurant and bar, Marty started D&M Doors, which stood for Debbie & Marty, and followed it up with 30 years of excellent service to his family, friends and community.
When they were blessed with their son Michael, a bond grew beyond father and son. He became Michael’s best friend and also coach for many years. Marty built a pitching mound and basketball court to help Michael excel in athletics, a feat supported by his coaching Michael from kindergarten through high school. As hard as coaching your own son can be, Marty switched from “Dad” to “Coach” effortlessly, giving Michael exactly what he needed, each and every time.
Marty was generous with his time and money, and because he was always a kid at heart, he was positive and entertaining. His beloved grandchildren reaped the benefits and garnered countless toys as he spoiled them shamelessly. He never asked for anything, but his legacy is rich in love, laughter and memories given freely by all those who knew him.
Marty also had the heart for rock and roll, especially the Beatles. He co-wrote three Beatles memorabilia books, and one by himself on the Monkees. Marty made a reputation for himself in the industry winning him life long friends, and more importantly supporters, when his health began to wane.
He is survived by his son Michael (Lauren) Eck and their children Easton and Porter, and a number of extended family and friends that will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Debbie.
Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m., Friday, October 22, 2021 at Conley Funeral Home, 116. W. Pierce St., Elburn. Please visit www.conleycare.com or the Conley Funeral Home Facebook page for his full life story.
Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m., Friday, October 22, 2021 at Conley Funeral Home, 116. W. Pierce St., Elburn. Please visit www.conleycare.com or the Conley Funeral Home Facebook page for his full life story.