COON RAPIDS — Ervin Emil Eckmann, age 78, passed away peacefully Monday, July 15, 2024, at his home. All are invited to attend a celebration of life for Ervin from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 4, at the Coon Rapids VFW Post 9625.

He was born Nov. 6, 1945, in Fairmont, Minn., to Albert and Malinda (Kruse) Eckmann from Welcome, Minn. Ervin grew up with many siblings in Minnesota where his parents owned a family farm.

Ervin served in the U.S Army from March 21, 1968 to Aug. 10, 1972, as an E5 Sergeant, deployed to Vietnam for two years. He was an avid supporter of the American Red Cross/Minnesota Blood Bank, donating over 6 1/2 gallons in his lifetime. Ervin was a 35-year member of American Legion Post 334, serving as Commander three times and in the color guard. He was also a lifetime member of Coon Rapids VFW Post 9625.

Ervin is survived by his wife of 34 years, Denise Eckmann; twin brother, Bill Eckmann; brother, Melvin Eckmann; sister, Janet Diekmann; daughters, Tamera, Kimberly; son, Jason; beloved stepchildren, Colette, Kyle and Justin; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed but the love he shared will continue to live on in our memories forever.

He was preceded in death by his father, Albert; his mother, Melinda; and siblings, Marie Wenzel, Clarence Eckmann, Alberta (Donald) Haskins, Donald Eckmann, Richard Eckmann, Martin Eckmann, Floyd Eckmann, Roy Eckmann, Mabel Weise, Lillian Kettner, Rose Dyslin and Alfredia Rettel.