John Eickholt

With hearts full of love and gratitude, the family of John Robert Eickholt entrusts his soul to the mercy of our Heavenly Father, who called him home on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. John passed peacefully at Harlingen Medical Center in Harlingen, Texas, at the age of 85. While we grieve his passing, we find comfort knowing that John now rests in the eternal light of God's love.

Born on June 30, 1939, in Pontiac, Michigan, John was the beloved son of John Joseph Eickholt and Clara Marie Shooltz Eickholt. Losing his mother at a young age, he embraced responsibility with strength and faith, caring for his younger siblings and working tirelessly on the family farm. Even in his youth, his heart for service and devotion to family reflected the depth of his character. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family, preceded in death by his parents and his dear brothers: Bernard, Harold, Raymond, and Donald.

John dedicated 31 years of faithful service to General Motors, where he not only built a career but also pursued education, earning a degree and becoming a Journeyman Machinist through sheer perseverance and hard work. His time at GM was marked by deep friendships and a steadfast commitment to providing a bright future for his family. After retiring, he built a home and a beloved gathering place in Curtis, Michigan, where memories were made, and love was shared. For the past 16 years, he also spent part of each year in Harlingen, Texas, where he found joy in friendship and community.

John's greatest legacy is the love he poured into his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he lived out his faith through acts of kindness, generosity, and unwavering support. His beloved wife of 63 years, Sandra Lou Eickholt, was the love of his life and constant companion. He never missed a birthday, an anniversary, or a chance to celebrate his loved ones, always putting family first and filling their lives with warmth and devotion.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Cathy Ann Gross (Craig), Jacqueline Marie Marshall, Robert John Eickholt (Sofia), and James Edward Eickholt (Heather); as well as his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love also extends to sisters-in-law La Rita Ball, Bernadette Eickholt, Marcia Eickholt, and Phyllis Wilde, and brother-in-law Daniel Gwizdala. Many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends will hold his memory close to their hearts.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be offered at St. Michael's Church in Maple Grove (17994 Lincoln Rd., New Lothrop, MI 48460) on April 4 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow in St. Michael's gymnasium, where family and friends will gather to honor a life well-lived.

As we say goodbye, we take comfort in the words of St. Paul:

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7)

As we mourn his passing, we also give thanks for the gift of his life and the love he so freely gave. May he rest in the peace of Christ, and may the memories he leaves behind be a source of comfort and strength. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.