Our Staff
Kurt Eschbach
Owner
Kurt Eschbach is the owner and operator of Hopler & Eschbach Funeral Home. A native of Johnson City, he graduated with honors from Johnson City High School in 1986 . He then attended Simmons School of Mortuary Science in Syracuse, NY, graduating as Valedictorian of the spring class of 1988 and was granted his Funeral Director's license in 1989.
Growing up on Johnson City's southside he witnessed countless examples of neighbors caring for neighbors; observations which helped him develop a heart and mind for service to others. Kurt has been active in numerous civic, religious, fraternal and cultural organizations within the community; including the First Presbyterian Church of Johnson City, Johnson City Unity Masonic Lodge, the Binghamton German Club, the Maine Community Band and the Vestal Community Band. In 2022 he was began service on the Lourdes Hospital Foundation Board and the Board of Directors of the Greater Good Grocery store operated by the Broome County Council of Churches. In 2023 he was elected as a Trustee of the Broome County Historical Society - a very special honor given Kurt's passionate interest in local history.
He spends many hours in service to his client families and his community. When not at work he enjoys his Miniature Pinscher Heidi, playing the trombone and vintage automobiles.
Benjamin Rangel
Lead Funeral Director
Benjamin Rangel was born and raised on Binghamton’s West side, and is a graduate of Binghamton High School. His interest in a career in funeral service began when he was a young boy. His natural ease with people and caring personality made it natural to pursue a career in helping others.
He pursued his studies at SUNY Broome and the Mortuary Science Program at Hudson Valley Community College. In 2014 while attending school he began his employment with Hopler & Eschbach Funeral Home where he discovered the true reward in serving those in need.
From 2017-2021 he was the location coordinator for Wreaths Across America at Chenango Valley Cemetery. He is a member of Johnson City Unity Lodge #970 F & AM. When not at work he enjoys spending time with family and friends especially his wife, their two children and the family Goldendoodle Peaches, as well as mountain biking.