Peacefully at Algoma Residential Community Hospice after a courageous battle with cancer on Sunday, January 28, 2018 at the age of 80. Beloved husband of Renate Eckstein and the late Christa Groger. Proud father of Alan Groger (Nancy) and Carin Glassford (Paul) and Vati of Ina Eckstein-Wirkner (Helmut), Ecke Eckstein (Annette) and Uta Reinke Eckstein (Stephen). Cherished grandpa of Jeni, Kati, and Monika Glassford. Special to the Eckstein grandchildren Johannes, Nils, Lisa-Marie, Klaus-Henry and Richard-Beck. Dear brother of Gunter of Berlin, Germany. A come & go celebration of Rainer’s life will be held at the Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E – 705-759-2522) on Friday, February 9, 2018 from 3 – 6 pm. Interment at Greenwood Cemetery. Rainer had a zest for life and loved being active, whether it was heading out for a bike ride to Hiawatha park, walking along the hub trail or being a true inspiration to others in teaching spin class at the YMCA. Rainer enjoyed the simple things in life like reading the daily newspaper, listening to a favourite opera and going to the movies with his friends. He was an avid sports fan and will be fondly remembered for always cheering on his beloved Detroit Tigers and Lions. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the YMCA Strong Kids charity would be appreciated. The family sincerely thanks the dedicated professionals who cared for Rainer at ARCH, the cancer clinic and on 3C at the Sault Area Hospital.
