Juri Eckert, a man of profound faith and unwavering dedication to his family and work, has returned to his Creator on the 22nd of June, 2025, at the age of 41.
Born on the 18th of November, 1983, in the humble town of Snamenka, Russia, Juri’s journey led him to Glenlea, Canada, where he lived his final years. His departure was sudden and unexpected, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Juri’s life was a testament to the values of hard work and perseverance. After completing his education in Russia and Germany, he honed his skills at a vocational school in Germany, where he trained as a roofer. His hands were skilled in roofing and welding. He put quality in everything he did. So through these trades, he not only built structures but also a strong community of friends and colleagues who respected him for his integrity and craftsmanship.
Juri’s commitment to his family was unwavering. He was a beloved husband to Marianna Eckert and a devoted father to their six children: Emily (20), Melina (16), Jason (14), Benjamin (11), Josephine (7), and Alia (4). His love for his family was his guiding light, and he instilled in his children the values of love, respect, and the importance of tradition. Juri also leaves behind his cherished mother, Vera Paweltschik, his brother Roman and sister-in-law Olesja Paweltschik, his respected mother-in-law Irma Renz, his caring sister-in-laws Lilli and Angela with their spouses Viktor Janzen and David Schellenberg, and his brother-in-laws Heinrich and Richard Renz, along with one niece and six nephews.
A man of deep religious conviction, Juri was a devout follower of Judaism. His faith was the cornerstone of his existence, guiding his actions and his worldview. He found solace and strength in the Torah, dedicating himself to its study and the pursuit of spiritual growth. His engagement with the Torah was not merely intellectual but also deeply personal, as he sought to live out the teachings and principles within its sacred texts. Juri’s religious life was marked by a quiet, steady devotion rather than ostentation. He was a pillar for his family and friends, often engaging in discussions and activities that deepened his and others’ understanding of their faith. His absence will be profoundly felt amongst the people who knew him. As we mourn the loss of Juri Eckert, we also celebrate the life he lived. He was a man who walked through life with dignity, kindness, and a genuine concern for others. His legacy is not only in the work he did or the community he served but in the love he shared and the wisdom he imparted. Juri’s life was a living example of the virtues espoused in Judaism – charity, justice, and humility.
Though his time with us was shorter than we had hoped, the impact of Juri’s life will continue to resonate through the generations. We take comfort in knowing that he lived a life full of purpose, surrounded by those he loved, and steadfast in his faith. As we bid farewell to Juri, we hold onto the memories and the lessons he left behind. May his memory be a blessing, and may he find eternal peace as he rests with his forefathers.