Kenneth “Ike” “Sam” Eckmann, 79, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024.  Ken was born on November 16, 1944 in Milwaukee, WI to Lee (Placzek) and Fritz Eckmann. They lived briefly on Milwaukee’s Lower East Side, before moving to the town of Granville, Milwaukee County where Ken enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening on his parent’s land. School was always a challenge for him, but his natural curiosity, keen skills of observation and interest in things mechanical provided him a continuing education that lasted his whole life. Ken often credited his training in the US Air Force as a whetstone for those skills. He firmly believed in service to others as a way of living, and was always ready to help someone at the drop of a hat.  Many a family member, neighbor, and friend benefitted from his generosity, and varied skill set.  Snow removal, home repair and maintenance, auto body repair and landscaping were just a few of the ways he liked to help his community. No matter the task at hand, Ken had a can-do attitude and took pride in his work. In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking, stained glass creation, being outdoors, boating, swimming, water skiing and snow skiing. Nothing made Ken happier than watching the sunset over the lake “Up North” with a glass of wine and a family member to share the moment…unless it was sharing coffee and a donut!  Whether it was in his free time or during his 30+ year career in the airline industry, Ken always listened to music, and encouraged others around him to pursue their musical passions.

He is survived by his close friend, and the mother of his children, Karen, his children Jenny (Al) and Dean (Martin), his grandchildren Meghan (Austin) and Jared, his great-grandchildren Wyatt and Brynn, his brother Randy (Geri) and many nieces and nephews. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, sister Nancy (Paul) and brother-in-law Curt.  In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to HAWS, a cause close to Ken’s heart.