Barbara Ecke, 87, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.

Barbara was born April 19, 1939, in Torrington, the daughter of the late Angelo and Pasqualina (Silano) Previti. She was a Registered Nurse who dedicated her career to geriatrics and infection control. Her kindness, strength, and genuine concern for those around her touched countless lives throughout her years of nursing.

She was the wife of the late Harold "Hal" Ecke. Barbara is survived by her children Michael Ecke (Deb Bryan), Mark Ecke (Kathy), and Michelle DelGrego (Scott); her sisters Carol Noonan (Tom), Marianne Cianciolo (Charlie), and Elaine Brewer (Earl); and her grandchildren Michael John (Caroline Kushner), Caroline (Steven Garofalo), Jacob (Kate), Tucker (Michelle DiGeronimo), Travis Ecke, Hannah DelGrego, and Hunter Noelle DelGrego.

Family was at the heart of everything Barb did. She cherished every gathering, holiday, celebration, and tradition. She took great joy in creating memories that will be carried on for generations. She was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved.

Nothing brought her more joy than her time spent with her grandchildren.

Barb loved traveling with her family, taking annual trips to Vermont and Rhode Island. Maine was also one of her favorite places, where she’d take girl trips with her cherished friends. She loved the beach, especially when the “Gulls were coming in.”

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she found comfort and community through her church. She was a committed member of the St. Thomas Becket/St. Bridget’s parishes. As a member of the Cheshire community, she enjoyed volunteering for the Chesprocott board and working the polls on election day.

Barb will be remembered for her generosity, her devotion to her family, and the countless traditions and memories she created. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on in her children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

Arrangements – Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, from 5 to 7 pm at the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 S. Main St. On Wednesday, her funeral procession will leave the funeral home at 9:30 am and proceed to St. Bridget Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am. Burial will follow at Cheshire Hillside Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or by clicking HERE.