John (Jack) P. Eckenrode is a Senior Olympian Cyclist from Pittsburgh, Pa. At the age of 97, his goal is to reach the century mark.

 

Born on Election Day, November 8, 1927, in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Jack grew up playing with friends on Beverly Road, attending St. Bernard’s Catholic Grade School, and graduating from Mt. Lebanon High School in 1946. One of his favorite childhood jobs was delivering newspapers by bicycle to homes in Virginia Manor.

 

After high school, Jack attended Duquesne University to study Business Sales. There, he joined the Gamma Phi fraternity, enjoyed 10 cent drafts, played poker, and admired the many smart girls on campus.

 

Following in the footsteps of his brothers, Jack served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He joined the Air Force Pilot Cadet Officer training program in 1950 and graduated with his wings in 1955. During his time in the service, Jack developed a love for exercise and learned to make friends from all walks of life.

 

In 1950, while in the hospital for surgery, Jack met a nursing student named Margaret Berus. She provided exceptional care during his recovery, and they were inseparable from that point on. Jack and Margaret married and had 12 children together.

 

After his service, Jack returned to Pittsburgh and began selling insurance. He became a top salesman, attributing his success to the need to provide for his growing family.

 

A lifelong sports fan, Jack still hopes to see the Pirates win another World Series. He also loves the Steelers, Penguins, biking, reading the newspaper, and spending time with his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

 

Jack currently resides in Bulger, Pennsylvania, with his second wife and second love of his life, Eleanor. He exercises daily, volunteers with Meals on Wheels weekly, and is grateful for every day.