Gary Harland Ekern

Celebrating the Life of Gary Harland Ekern.

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude that we celebrate the remarkable life of Gary "Beaver" Harland Ekern, who passed away at the age of 72 due to complications following heart surgery. Born to Harland and Joyce (De Boer) Ekern in 1951, Gary grew up in Coon Valley, WI with his parents, brother Robert and sister Betty.  He graduated high school in 1969.  He attended UWL and earned a degree in accounting.  He worked as an accountant at Vernon Electric and Reinhart Foods.

Gary shared 47 years of marriage with his beloved wife, LuAnne Ekern. Together, they raised three loving children: Jenny (Eric) Dunaway, Erin (Justin) Connolly, and Chad (Barbara) Ekern. Gary was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren: Alyssa, Khanye, Ty, Sam, Miles, Jack, Drew, Amelia, Claire and step grandchildren Payton and Draven.  His family was his pride and joy, and his legacy of love and laughter will continue through them.

Gary was a beacon of joy and enthusiasm, spreading positivity wherever he went. Gary's love for sports was unmatched, with tennis and later pickleball being his passions. His energy and zest for life were contagious, making every game a memorable event. He organized tennis leagues for many years in La Crosse and recently served on the leadership board for the La Crosse Pickleball Association.

A dedicated community leader, Gary served as the Village President of Coon Valley, where he worked to improve the lives of his neighbors. His commitment extended to his involvement with the Jaycees and Lion's Club, where he made lasting contributions. After retirement, he volunteered helping kids learn to read at a local elementary school.  Gary found immense joy in the great outdoors. Whether fishing, boating, or biking, he was always on the move, savoring every moment. For the last few years, his casita in Arizona was his sanctuary, where he relished the beauty of sunrises and sunsets, often with a margarita in hand and his camera ready. Meeting new people and making friends came naturally to Gary. He enjoyed all the gatherings of the Coon Valley Crew (with over 40 years together) and the cousins’ euchre tournaments. His warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His adventurous spirit and love for life will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, sister Betty (Bob Johnson) Ekern, brother Robert "Harvey" Ekern. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, in laws Everett & Lucille Breyer, nephew Ryan Schultz, and sister-in-law Debra Rohrer-Ekern.

The family would like to thank Marshfield Clinic Health System and Gundersen Health System for the excellent, compassionate care.