Who We Are

While Willard created the foundation during his lifetime, it did not become active until after his death in March 1985. At his instruction, its oversight remains within his family. The first directors were Willard’s widow, Ruth, and his daughters, Barbara and Susan. The board has subsequently been changed to include only members of the family related to daughter Susan, including his son-in-law and grandchildren.

Susan Eccles Denkers passed away in October, 2017, her family remains on the governing committees of the foundation.

Today, the Willard L. Eccles Foundation’s activities and grant-making programs are directed by the following:

Executive Committee

Stephen E. Denkers, Salt Lake City, Utah – Executive Director
a grandson of Willard Eccles
Stephen G. Denkers, Ogden, Utah – son-in-law
Julie Denkers, Salt Lake City, Utah – granddaughter

Advisory Committee (includes relationship to Willard L. Eccles)

Julie Denkers, Salt Lake City, Utah – granddaughter
Stephen E. Denkers, Salt Lake City, Utah – grandson
Stephen G. Denkers, Ogden, Utah – son-in-law
Kelly Denkers, Salt Lake City, Utah – Granddaughter
Ashley Bishop, Salt Lake City, Utah – Granddaughter
Madison Denkers, Salt Lake City, Utah – Granddaughter
Mathew Bishop, Salt Lake City, Utah – Grandson
Michael Denkers, Salt Lake City, Utah – Grandson