NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – Paul Eckhart hasn’t missed a weekend performance at the Grand Ole Opry in 42 years, but at age 83 he has decided to give up the night life.
Eckhart, whose dedication has won him a designated parking space backstage, a plaque on his customary stage-front pew and close friendships with numerous country artists, says he will “retire” this weekend.
“Everything has got to come to an end sooner or later anyway,” he said. “I thought this was a good time.”
The Opry is planning to honor him before and throughout the show on Saturday.
“We’re going to take time out in the show and kind of let the world know that we think the world of this man,” said Pete Fisher, the Opry’s vice president and general manager. “And just give him one big public thank you.”