On February 9, 2025 at 99 years of age, Eileen Burklund peacefully passed away. As one of 11 children, we were told many wonderful stories of her childhood life on the farm. In 1944 she married Lowell, the love of her life, and the beginning of a lifetime commitment to each other, their three children, and six grandchildren.
Family was first in her life. We were taught to respect ourselves and others, and to be non-judgemental, honest, and kind. She set that example well with her generous nature of being accepting and always putting others first. She was reliably there when we needed help or just a pep-talk. Her encouragement and optimism always left you feeling better.
As a longtime member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, she enjoyed teaching Sunday school and being a member of the altar guild. Her faith was a central part of her life. Her love of nature and respect for all living things was an inspiration. Great times were spent traveling with dad and seeing many wonders of the world. But mom didn’t have to leave home to appreciate those wonders. We all remember lying on blankets to watch for shooting stars, picking wild berries, picnics in the snow, and learning about the birds that visited her feeders and landed on her hands. That gift of awe and wonder will live on through her children and grandchildren.
After the death of dad, she continued to live at the home they built until she was 98 with her beloved dogs Punkin and Sweetie.
We say goodbye to a remarkable woman who lived by her beliefs and who will continue to inspire us and be treasured in our memories.
Eileen is survived by children Lowell Burklund Jr., Jeff (Julie) Burklund, and Karen (Bill) Friedenberg; grandchildren Ben Burklund, Brandon Burklund, Chris Burklund, Peter Friedenberg, Holly Natalie, and Allison Freidenberg. A special thank you to the staff at Murray’s Country View and the hospice team for the care and love you gave to mom in her last months.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family and online condolences may be directed to www.skradskifuneralhomes.com. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Burklund family.
Connie Bichler Schmidt - Escanaba, MI
Karen… so sorry on your mother’s passing. We would meet in stores n chat n I would always tell her to say Hello to you. See you have three children. We have a son Soren a pastor in Chassell n a daughter Emily in Plymouth MN working for Pearson. Three grandchildren. Sorry to be missing you bec of the private services. Sympathy to each of you.
Gary and Gail tryan - Escanaba, Mi
So sorry for the loss of your mother. Always had a smile and great to talk to.
Sending sympathy to the family
Kathleen Creten - Escanaba, MI
Lowell and family,
Your mom and dad were such wonderful people, and I always respected them. She was truly lovely. I remember their service and dedication to St. Stephen’s Church.
Peace,
Neil Kositzky - Punta Gorda, FLORIDA
Deepest sympathy on the passing of your mom! she was a very special person and raised three wonderful children.