James Eck, former professor of finance, passed away August 11.

Eck was a member of the Washburn University community from 1979 until 2009, during which he taught finance and insurance courses in the Washburn School of Business. He was a member of various campus committees which allowed him to foster valuable relationships with students and faculty alike.

Washburn faculty spoke out on his passing.

“Professor Eck was gentle in demeanor, respectful of the difference of opinion and a believer in, and perhaps an advocate of, one-world free of self-gloating exceptionalism,” said L. Ali Khan, professor of the School of Law. “Such are the people… who truly belong to the noble profession of teaching.”

This sentiment was echoed by many. His influence stretched from students’ desks to the ears of his colleagues for thirty years.

The funeral was held at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 13 in Kansas City, MO. Donations to American Diabetes Association were kindly requested in place of flowers.