Sgt. Lawrence Eckhoff
Lawrence Henry Eckhoff, known affectionately as Larry to his friends and family, lived a life that was as full of purpose as it was of love. Born on December 8th, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, Larry’s journey through life was a testament to the power of dedication and service. He passed away on May 13th, 2025, in Riverside, California, after a courageous battle with cancer. His legacy is a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the path for others to follow. Larry was a beloved husband to Norma, a supportive father to John and Cathy Ybarra, Nancy and Bill Sarocco, Tamara and Rob Lake, and Steven and Julia Ybarra, and a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather to Felicia, Lawrence, Sarah, Benjamin, Rachel, Hannah, Nathan, Elaina, Kayla, Mackenzie, and Cooper. Each family member was a thread in the rich tapestry of his life, and he was the steadfast anchor that held them all together. Education was a cornerstone of Larry’s life. He earned his Associate of Arts from Cypress College and went on to obtain teaching credentials from Cal State Fullerton. These accomplishments reflected his belief in the transformative power of knowledge, and he carried this conviction into every aspect of his life. Larry’s professional journey was marked by entrepreneurship and a deep commitment to his community. As a business owner, he understood the value of hard work and the importance of integrity. His role as a Commissioner on the City of Norco Veteran’s Commission was not just a title; it was a responsibility that he upheld with honor and dedication. Larry’s passion for anything military or veteran-related was evident in his tireless efforts as an honored docent to the George Ingalls Veterans Memorial Plaza, and his support for the buy-a-brick program for the City of Norco demonstrated his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy. One of Larry’s most impactful campaigns was his initiative to collect and retire US flags with the respect and reverence they deserved. This endeavor showcased his deep respect for the symbols that unite us and his understanding that such symbols require care and honor. His actions spoke volumes about his character and his love for his country. Larry’s life was a reflection of his beliefs, and his beliefs were rooted in service, both to his family and to the community he held dear. His interests and involvements were not just pastimes; they were expressions of his dedication to making the world a better place for all who came after him. In the spirit of a motivational speaker, let us draw inspiration from Larry’s life with a quote that encapsulates his values: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” by Mahatma Gandhi. Larry embodied this sentiment through his unwavering commitment to service. He found his purpose and identity by giving generously of himself, and in doing so, he inspired countless others to do the same. Lawrence Henry Eckhoff’s life story is one of resilience and generosity. He has left an indelible mark on the hearts of his loved ones and the fabric of his community. Though he may have departed from this world, his spirit continues to motivate and encourage us to live with purpose, to serve with passion, and to cherish the bonds of family and community. Larry’s legacy is a challenge to each of us: to take up the torch of service and carry it forward with the same fervor and commitment that he did. His memory lives on as a guiding light, a reminder of the profound impact one life, lived with intention and heart, can have on the world.
In lieu of flowers the family would ask people to donate in Sgt. Eckhoff’s name to the George Ingalls Veterans Plaza. You can find more information by following this link: https://www.norco.ca.us/events-attractions/explore-norco/veterans-memorial-plaza