Kenneth A. Eckloff

Ishpeming, MI – Kenneth A. Eckloff, age 88, a longtime resident of North Lake, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 22, 2025, while in the loving care of his family and the compassionate staff at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility in Ishpeming.
Ken was born in Kingsford, MI, on October 21, 1936, to the late Vaudis I. (Douglas) and Arvo A. Eckloff. He grew up in Ishpeming and was a proud graduate of the Ishpeming High School Class of 1954. His career spanned many years with the Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Company as a service truck driver at various mines, concluding with 20 years at the Tilden Mine before retiring in 1995.
A devoted member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Ken found joy in the outdoors, particularly at camp in southern Marquette County, where he spent time hunting and fishing. Above all, family was central to his life. Whether attending his grandchildren's events locally or keeping up with those farther away, he was always involved and immensely proud of their accomplishments. A daily coffee ritual at his brother-in-law's garage in North Lake was a cherished part of his routine.
Ken is survived by his daughters, Chris (David) Bertucci of Ishpeming and Connie (Michael) O'Donnell of O'Fallon, IL; five grandchildren, Ken (Nik Kuehn) Bertucci, David (Kerrie) Bertucci, Ashley Bertucci, Elizabeth (Nathan) Ebrecht, and Douglas (Andy Perry) O'Donnell; his brother, Elmer Eckloff of Muskegon; sisters-in-law, Norma Belmore and Mary Morcom; brothers-in-law, Ken and Michael Nelson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Evelyn (2006); his son, Kenneth G. (1977); his brothers, Bill and Russell Eckloff; and his sister, Margie Bevard.
A Rosary will be recited at 9:30 AM on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, followed by visitation until 11:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM with Rev. Fr. Larry Van Damme officiating. Interment will take place at Ishpeming Cemetery. A luncheon will follow in the K/D Hall.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility for the kind and compassionate care Ken received over the past two years.
Ken's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.