RAYMOND ECKELBERG

 RAYMOND ECKELBERG

     Raymond E. Eckelberg, 80, of Tomah, WI, passed away Monday, April 24, 2023, at his home. He was born Sept. 19, 1942 in the township of Wilton, WI, to Reuben and Celia (Miller) Eckelberg. He was united in marriage to Joyce L. Lietz May 19, 1970, at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tomah. She preceded him in death in 2016.

     Ray worked for 32 years for the City of Tomah on the public works department and was also a member of the Oakdale Volunteer Fire Department for 20 years. In his later years, he enjoyed working at the south side Kwik Trip in Tomah (which started an era in the family that spanned for three generations). Ray enjoyed interacting with his co-workers and the customers that came into the store. He was an avid fisherman, woodworker and more than anything loved to assist others in any way he could lend a hand (especially the neighbor kids). He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

     He is survived by his two sons, Scott Eckelberg of Hixton, WI, and Kevin (Jennifer) Eckelberg of Tomah, WI; son-in-law Mike Haines of Black River Falls, WI; sister Ellen (Bill) Reneau of Tomah; grandchildren Nathanial and Anneliese Eckelberg, Jordana (significant other, Brian) Haines and Mikhael (Jordan) Langrehr and Alauna and Kyrah Eckelberg; great-grandchildren Aiden Marie Haines, Rory Mae Langrehr and Roman Langrehr; along with his extended Taphouse Twenty family; in-laws, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben and Celia; his wife, Joyce; a daughter, Lisa Haines; along with several brothers and sisters.

     Funeral Services were held Friday, April 28, 2023, at 11 a.m. at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Warrens. Pastor Mark Wilkens officiated. Burial followed at Oak Grove Cemetery in Tomah. Family and friends were invited for visitation Thursday, April 27, 2023, from 4 to p.m. 7 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Additional visitation was held Friday, April 28, 2023 from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Ray’s family encouraged everyone to come as you are in terms of funeral attire, and plaid flannels would be appropriate if you wish. 

     In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Chloe Kay Memorial Scholarship, Kyson’s Voice, Ronald McDonald House in Rochester, MN, or wagr.org to support Riley’s Resilience.

     The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah assisted the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.