Former Retreading Executive, MTD Writer Dick Eckart Dies

Sept. 29, 2021

Former owner of tread rubber company Production Systems Inc. and MTD contributor Dick Eckart has died at the age of 87.

Born in Copley, Ohio, to Clyde and Mary Eckart, he earned a bachelors degree in chemistry from The University of Akron.

Eckart worked for Mohawk Tire and Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. before launching Production Systems. He later sold the company and retired at the age of 60.

Eckart also wrote about retreading for MTD from 1980 through 1985. 

"I worked closely with him during those years," says MTD Publisher Greg Smith, who served as MTD's editor during some of that time.

"Dick was always available, helpful and reliable - a true professional."

Eckart is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carolyn; three daughters and their husbands; grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter.

Visiting hours will be held at The Chapel, 135 Fir Hill, Akron, Ohio, on Oct. 2 at 10 a.m., followed by a funeral service that morning at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name can be made to Haven of Rest Ministries.

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