Michael Andrew Eckstein
October 28, 1948 - October 16, 2017
Obituary
POYNETTE-Michael A. Eckstein, age 68, of Poynette, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017. He was born on Oct. 28, 1948, in Prairie du Sac, Wis., the son of Andrew and Mary (Adank) Eckstein. After graduating from Madison West High School in 1966, Mike followed in his father’s footsteps and enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving his country for four years. From this time forward Mike proudly displayed the flag at his home and on his boats. He met Mary Haug during his time in the Navy. They were married on Oct. 23, 1971, in Verona Wis. He then attended MATC where he earned his associates degree in Mechanical Design Engineering. Mike worked for Madison Kipp for many years and then decided to develop his own business as a tool design engineer, retiring in 2016. He was a proud member of Waunakee American Legion Post 360. He had a true appreciation for all things outdoors. Hunting, fishing, boating, and skiing with family and friends took top priority. But his love of dogs, particularly, Yellow Labrador Retrievers ranked very high. He owned four during his adult life and spoiled them all. His friends knew Mike was their “go to” person with any technology related questions. From your computer to your boat he welcomed any opportunity to help a friend or even a complete stranger. Leaving them all knowing he would give his all to solve any of their issues. He had a robust laugh which was easy to pick out of a crowd. He often told his jokes over and over usually laughing louder than those listening. He always tried to pay it forward and was kind and thoughtful to anyone in his life. In addition to Mary, his wife of nearly 47 years, survivors include his children, Cory (Brenda Lins), Trent, and Shara Eckstein; his two grandchildren, Katlyn and William Eckstein; two sisters, Elaine Wenger and Julie Eckstein; his two brothers, Richard (Beth), Gary (Luanne); and other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Celebration of Michael's Life will be held at WAUNAKEE AMERICAN LEGION POST 360, 417 E. Main St., Waunakee, from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m on Saturday Oct. 28, 2017. Military rites will be conducted by the Post at 2:30pm. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson Lodi
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 South Main Street
608-592-3201
Events
Celebration of Life
Sat Oct 28, 2017 @ 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM CDT
Waunakee American Legion Post 360 • 417 E. Main St., Waunakee, WI null
Photos
No photos of Michael have been shared yet.
Memories
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Jude & Craig Larson
Other •
So many memories add up to how the Larson & Eckstein families were intermingled. Babies, Puppies, Ski vacations, Hunting weekends, snowmobiling, gourmet dinners, Christmas tree hunting, and summer weekends at the Lake sitting around the campfire with buttered popcorn. We are so blessed to have been part of this life with Mikey and will miss him so very much. Craig & Jude
JM
Jeff Meloy
Other •
Lots of fond memories....like an older brother at times keeping Dick and I on the straight and narrow as much as he could. Good times. So sorry for your loss Eckstein family. Jeff and Sandra Meloy
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Zelda M. Droster
Other •
Hi Mary: I know I told you about it years ago but you may not remember it so here I go. One of the first times I ever met Mike, we were at a hospital party and I had introduced myself to him and after all these years I still remember him saying "Mary was the best thing that happened to me". I was so impressed and have never forgotten it. To you and your family, I send my sympathy and am so sorry for your loss.
With big hugs, Zelda Droster
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Nikki O'Brien
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Oh Mary, Pat and I are so so sorry to hear about Mike. He was family to us and will be greatly missed. What a good man he was. He never missed a Christmas coming over to see mom and dad. We sure do have a lot of good memories growing up together in the Hollow. I don't have the words, but I feel just terrible along with Pat. Our prayers are with you and your family Mary. Take care of yourself and know that we love you.
KS
Kathy Swanson
Other •
Mary,
It's been many years since we worked together but I have very fond memories of you sharing family events and stories about Mike and the kids. I am so saddened by your loss, and know how hard this will be for all of you. Keep all the memories alive, and share them often. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Take good care -
Kathy Swanson
CM
Carole McCormick
Other •
Mary: My deepest sympathy on MIke's passing. I have such fun memories of our U-Care days & all of us going out & Mike meeting up with us. He was always telling jokes or stories & got me good one time. I'll have to share that with you on Sat. His picture makes me smile. May the support of family & friends, near & far, help you & your family at this sad time.