Holden Bradley Eckman, 3, lovingly known as “Holdy B,” passed away unexpectedly on April 2nd, 2026, surrounded by so much love, all his music, and more importantly, his two favorite people, Mommy and Daddy. He was born on December 28th, 2022 and is survived by his parents, Sydney and Brad Eckman, his little brother, Maddox Eckman, his maternal grandparents, John and Melissa Kaercher, his paternal grandmother, Beth Tatko (Bill Parish); his paternal grandfather, Rick Eckman, his uncle and godfather, Jon Kaercher (Jacob Longerbeam), his godmother, Ryleigh Bauer (Shane Hopkins), his maternal great-grandparents, Ronnie and Jackie Golletti, his paternal great-grandfather, Bob Tatko, his aunt, Leeanna (Will) Norman, his great-aunts: Melanie Bauer, Maryann Angeline, Bobbi Naples, Kathy Alvarez, Sue Tatko, and Jessica Tatko; as well as his great-uncles, Ryan Bauer, Ed Angeline, Sam Naples, Joe Alvarez, and John Tatko; along with his “best babysitter,” Ms. Jeri; his nenny and pay-pay, and many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his baby brother; his maternal great-grandparents, John and Rae Kaercher; his paternal great-grandparents, Ralph and Lela Eckman, and his paternal great-grandmother, Marge Tatko.
Holden was the most loving, kind, and caring boy you could have ever met. He stole the hearts of everyone he met with his sweet spirit, joyful heart, comical personality, unforgettable smile and contagious laugh. Though his time here was far too short, he made a lasting impact on every life he touched. He was not dealt a fair chance at life, but he never let that stop him. He loved life more than anyone we know, and made sure to live every moment to the fullest. He never backed down and always going at his own speed and was truly unstoppable. Some of his favorite things included his bb’s, pad-pad, superheroes, dressing up in his costumes, being in his pj’s, his music, Play-Doh, playing outside at the park, baking brownies with Mommy, deer hunting with Daddy, being the best big brother to Maddox, buying a new toy every single day, Donald’s, rolls and dip, tea, popcorn, and slushies, the beach, adventures anywhere, shopping, playing with friends, snuggling, Halloween, The Grinch, and just being at his most favorite place–home.
Holden had a special way of bringing people together. Through his strength, joy, and pure love for life, he touched the lives of people he never even met and taught everyone around him so much about what truly matters: how to live fully, love deeply, and cherish every single moment. Holden will be deeply missed by all those who love him.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Friehling and Dr. Piper for their compassionate care during Holden’s initial AML diagnosis.
A heartfelt and profound thank you goes out to Dr. Randy for the love and dedication he showed to Holden over the last 15 months: for playing with him, caring for him, and most importantly, being by his side throughout his final day.
The family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to all of the nurses and staff at Children’s Hospital, who became like family throughout this journey. Your compassion, love, and unwavering support will never be forgotten.
Holden’s love, laughter, and beautiful spirit will live on forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him and he will never be forgotten.
Family and friends are welcome to attend a Mass to celebrate the wonderful life of Holden on Tuesday, April 7th, at St. Felix Church, 450 13th Street, Freedom at 10 a.m. Following the Mass, all are invited to join the family for a luncheon at Holden’s favorite restaurant, Texas Roadhouse.
All arrangements have been entrusted to William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Holden’s name to the Beaver County Cancer and Heart Association, 3582 Brodhead Road #201, Monaca, PA 15061.