John W. Eckman, age 77, of Tomahawk, passed away on Monday, December 16, 2013, at Ministry St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield. John was born September 11, 1936, in Merrill, WI, to the late John and Lauretta (Radthke) Eckman . John grew up in the Merrill area and was a 1954 graduate of Merrill High School. He was married to Ann Peeters on September 21, 1963; she survives.
John and Ann lived and raised their family in Merrill, WI. John began his grocery career in Tomahawk as a manager for National Tea Grocery and after, became manager at the Merrill location. John and Ann later owned and operated John’s United Foods in Merrill where even their kids helped and worked from a very young age. John ran the store for many years until moving to Tomahawk and retiring from Suske IGA.
John was an active member of several organizations including a charter member and chair of Merrill Ducks Unlimited, the Lincoln Gun Club and the Somo Fish and Gun Club. He was an avid fisherman and hunter who loved the outdoors. He enjoyed bowling and spending time with family and friends.
Survivors include:
His Wife, Ann Eckman, of Tomahawk;
1 Son, Brian Eckman, of Merrill, WI;
3 Daughters, Rona (Gary) Horn, of Eau Claire, WI; Jana (Todd Peterson) Eckman, of Mauston, WI; and Shana Eckman of Eau Claire, WI;
2 Brothers, Dean (Nang) Weiger, of Marquette, MI; and Keith Weiger, of Kona, HI.
1 Sister, Kathy (Dan) Keough, of Marquette, MI.
7 Grandchildren, Kayleigh and Bethany Horn, Kyle, Erik and Keli Borem and Cole and Luke Peterson.
John was preceded in death by his Parents, Walter and Lauretta Weiger, and Son, Mark John Eckman.
A “Celebration of Life” for John Eckman will take place on Saturday, December 28, at 11:00 AM from Generations Funeral Home at 1400 North 4th Street in Tomahawk. Alan Waid will officiate with interment to take place in the spring at Greenwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, December 27, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM and again on Saturday, from 9:00 AM until the time of services at 11:00 A.M. Generations Funeral Home and Crematory of Tomahawk is assisting the family with arrangements. View obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com