Barbara Mae (Zaiger) Ecklund

Born on September 13, 1938, in Manistee to John L. and Iris V. (Burtch) Zaiger, Barbara grew up helping at her family's Zaiger's Tavern (currently Painted Lady Saloon) and was a proud graduate of Manistee High School, Class of 1956. She married the love of her life, James J. Ecklund, Sr., on June 28, 1958 at Guardian Angels Church in Manistee and together they raised three children followed by grandchildren, who lovingly call her Gramy. In 1990, Barbara moved to Boulder City, Nevada, where she continued her career in nursing and began teaching.

Barbara's life was defined by devotion to family, a passion for learning, and a tireless work ethic. She fulfilled her dream of becoming a nurse, earning LPN and RN credentials from West Shore Community College, followed by a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education, from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her nursing career (1979-1994) included West Shore Hospital (Manistee, MI), Boulder City Hospital, Sunrise Hospital (Las Vegas, NV), and St. Rose Dominican Hospital (Henderson, NV), focused on Labor and Delivery. She later transitioned to education, teaching health occupations at VoTech High School/SECTA and Desert Rose High School in Southern Nevada (1992-2014).

She had a deep love for growing and preserving food, tending to her large vegetable garden and berry patches with care and joy. Barbara took pride in canning everything from homegrown vegetables to Lake Michigan salmon. She also loved knitting, reading, cooking, and caring for her flowers, especially her roses. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious food.

Barbara found joy in traveling, camping, beach days, relaxing by the pool, and family gatherings. Her faith guided her life, and she taught those around her the power of love, forgiveness, kindness, and the Lord. Her philosophy, "Life is what you make it," was lived fully and generously. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to set and achieve their goals.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Iris (Zaiger) Bletsch, brother-in-law John (Big John) Bletsch. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, James J. Ecklund, Sr.; children Scott & Kimberly Davidson, James Ecklund, Jr., and David & Jennifer Elenbaas; grandchildren Malorie (Josh) Lewis, Brooke (Codie) Ten Hagen, Julia Davidson, and Kristina Davidson; her brother and sister-in-law John R. & Sandy Zaiger; and many extended family and friends who will miss her dearly.

In keeping with Barbara's wishes, no formal services will be held. She will be laid to rest at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Manistee, Michigan. The family encourages loved ones to honor her memory in their own meaningful way. Messages of sympathy or favorite memories may be shared here on this memorial page.