John Theodore "Ted" Eschels, CLU
John Theodore Eschels, CLU Ted, professionally known as J. Ted, 97, of Birmingham, MI, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2020. Beloved husband of 68 years of the late Natalie Scott Eschels. Also preceded in death by his parents Myrtle and John, half-brother Thurlow Frazer, and son-in-law Ted ter Haar. Survived by his loving sister Iris Cook of California, daughter Patti terHaar, son Randy (Sherie). Grandchildren are Cara (Keith) Fedewa Debbaudt, David (Rebecca) Fedewa, Garett Eschels, and Erin Eschels. Great Grandchildren are Henry, Theodore, Everett, and Oliver Fedewa, and Kacie and Colten Debbaudt. He will be missed by many nieces and nephews, and his compassionate care roommate Aeon Clahar. His long storied career served clients in their insurance and investment needs, through the J. Ted Eschels Agency. He was a pioneer in working with educators on their retirement plans, and served his industry as a board member and president of numerous associations. The business grew to become the Eschels Financial Group, Inc. in 1988, and is now run by the second and third generation, Randy and Garett Eschels. Decades of awards on walls and shelves tell this story of dedication and service. He was an active member and deacon of Redford Baptist Church, helping build the church, and later became a member of Highland Park Baptist Church. He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during WWII. Family will gather graveside for interment next to his dear wife Natalie. A memorial service may be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Highland Park Baptist Church, or your favorite charity. ~Lovingly submitted by his familyObituary
John Theodore Eschels, CLU Ted, professionally known as J. Ted, 97, of Birmingham, MI, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2020. Beloved husband of 68 years of the late Natalie Scott Eschels. Also preceded in death by his parents Myrtle and John, half-brother Thurlow Frazer, and son-in-law Ted ter Haar. Survived by his loving sister Iris Cook of California, daughter Patti terHaar, son Randy (Sherie). Grandchildren are Cara (Keith) Fedewa Debbaudt, David (Rebecca) Fedewa, Garett Eschels, and Erin Eschels. Great Grandchildren are Henry, Theodore, Everett, and Oliver Fedewa, and Kacie and Colten Debbaudt. He will be missed by many nieces and nephews, and his compassionate care roommate Aeon Clahar. His long storied career served clients in their insurance and investment needs, through the J. Ted Eschels Agency. He was a pioneer in working with educators on their retirement plans, and served his industry as a board member and president of numerous associations. The business grew to become the Eschels Financial Group, Inc. in 1988, and is now run by the second and third generation, Randy and Garett Eschels. Decades of awards on walls and shelves tell this story of dedication and service. He was an active member and deacon of Redford Baptist Church, helping build the church, and later became a member of Highland Park Baptist Church. He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during WWII. Family will gather graveside for interment next to his dear wife Natalie. A memorial service may be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Highland Park Baptist Church, or your favorite charity. ~Lovingly submitted by his family