Michael Jay Eckert (Mike)  a beloved father, grandfather and friend passed away at the age of 53 on Saturday June 15, 2024 in Grand Forks, North Dakota following a brief yet courageous battle with cancer.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Evangelical Free Church in Thief River Falls, MN. A visitation will begin one hour before the service at the church on Saturday.

Mike was born on December 18th, 1970, the fourth son to Ross and Roberta Eckert (Ricker). Mike was a 1989 graduate of Coon Rapids High school. After attending school for meat processing, he moved to Thief River Falls in 1990 where he worked at Hugo's and Joppru Meats before ultimately finding a home as Shift Lead in the Walmart Deli Department.

Mike was an avid outdoorsman spending a lot of time with his sons and family, hunting and fishing. He also loved target shooting and sharing a beer with friends. Mike was known for his quick wit and infectious humor and had a gift for making others laugh and feel at ease. His warmth and kindness will never be forgotten and will be deeply missed by all that were lucky enough to know him.

Mike is survived by his sons and daughter in-laws: Casey James Bladow, Zach & Chelsea Bladow, Jacob Eckert, and Beau & Miranda Eckert. Grandkids: Ella and Quentin Eckert, Jaxxon & Whitley Bladow and Alton Eckert. Siblings and in-laws: Mark Eckert, Doug & Wendy Eckert, Brian & Shawna Eckert, and Jennifer and Matt Hanson. He is also survived by lifelong friend and hunting partner, the brother he "never wanted" Troy Kalafut as well as eight nieces and nephews.  Mike is preceded in death by his parents Ross and Roberta Eckert.

A memorial service to celebrate Mike's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorials made to the Eckert Family.

Mike will be deeply missed by all that knew him.