John Eickholt

John Eickholt obituary, Harlingen, TX

John Eickholt

John Eickholt Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 29, 2025.
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.

View All Photos

Add Photos to Memorial

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign John Eickholt's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 18, 2025

Craig posted to the memorial.

March 27, 2025

Judy (Bishop) Birchmeier posted to the memorial.

March 29, 2025

Legacy Remembers posted an obituary.

2 Entries

Craig

April 18, 2025

John became a very good friend of ours. We met him one day driving around the lake. We saw a vacancy sign by his cabin. That was over 25 years ago. We spent two weeks at his cabin every year since.
A few of my memories of John were his love of westerns which he revived in me. Didn´t matter if it was pouring rain or sun shining, we would watch western after western.
We also shared our love of talking about politics and how like-minded we were in that. We had so many conversations.
He always wanted us to extend our vacation and made it very hard to leave, but obligations were always calling.
He always made us feel at home. It was like our second home for over a quarter of a century- even rainy days were great.
We went on many boat rides together and loved every minute - best vacations we ever had.
We will never forget the corn from his garden. We would time our vacations so that we´d be there when that corn was ready. Best ever - none better anywhere.
I´ll always remember his good nature and smile and kind heart.
Rest in peace, John. I´ll never forget you.
Craig Ulin

Judy (Bishop) Birchmeier

March 27, 2025

Sincere Sympathy Sandy & your family.

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home - Harlingen

1002 E Harrison Ave, Harlingen, TX 78550

Make a Donation
in John Eickholt's name

How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John Eickholt's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign John Eickholt's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 18, 2025

Craig posted to the memorial.

March 27, 2025

Judy (Bishop) Birchmeier posted to the memorial.

March 29, 2025

Legacy Remembers posted an obituary.