Michael D. Ekern, 79, of Eland, died on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Marshfield Medical Center, Weston.
Mike was born on May 25, 1947, in Rice Lake, the son of Duane and Mary (Reckenthaler) Ekern.
Mike was a United States Army Veteran, serving from 1968 until 1970. Mike was a proud veteran and was able to go on the Honor Flight in 2025, with his son, Scott.
On September 30, 1978, Mike was united in marriage to Katie Verkuilen.
Mike attended UWSP and graduated with a degree in Natural Resources. He worked for the DNR, traveling to South Dakota. Mike later discovered his love for building and working with his hands, which led him to his carpentry career. He worked as a Union Carpenter for Carpenters Local 804, until his retirement. Mike enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, being outdoors and making maple syrup. He was active in his community as an assistant boy scout leader and president of the Eland Historical Society. Mike loved spending time with his family and attending the kids’ sporting activities.
Mike had a heart that always put others first, and he found joy in helping others. His compassion and kindness were shared with everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of love, selflessness, and genuine goodness that will never be forgotten.
Mike is survived by his wife, Katie; three children, Laura (Derek Grove) Ekern, Lindsay (Greg) Cole and Scott (Kristin) Ekern; eight grandchildren, Alex, Luke, Gavin, Landon, Lydia, Owen, Olivia and Jack; siblings, David (Debbie) Ekern, Maureen (Jim) Mantor and Marilyn (Ted Hegstorm) Brenna; brothers and sisters-in-law, Barbara Ostrowski, Betty (Elroy) Koskey, Richard (Julie) Verkuilen, Pat Miller and Joyce Verkuilen and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents and mother and father-in-law, Leslie and Hattie Verkuilen.
A Funeral Service will be held at 1 PM on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg. Pastor Wes Jedras will officiate. Visitation will be on Friday, from 11 AM until the time of service at the funeral home.
