Janis “Jan” Dianne Eckland

1948-2023

 

     Janis “Jan” Dianne Eckland, 75 of Keokuk, IA passed away Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.

     She was born November 6, 1948 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of James William and Dorothy Louise White Fellows.  Jan graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1967 and later attended Southeastern Community College. 

     On September 7, 1968 Jan was united in marriage to Galen Eckland in Keokuk.  He survives.

     Other survivors include one son, Ty Eckland (Melissa) of Keokuk, one daughter, Dr. Tara Lukkarinen (Ray) of Muscatine, IA, five grandchildren, Makenah Walden (Gabe), Kerrigan Kruse (Trent), Chase Eckland, Ryan Lukkarinen, and Nate Lukkarinen and one great-grandchild, Huxton Walden.  She is also survived by two sisters, Delilah Wagner (Larry) of New London, IA, Lynda Fellows of Winfield, IA and one brother, Larry Fellows (Betty) of Mt. Dora, FL, and several nieces and nephews. 

     She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Robert William Fellows.

     Jan alongside Galen, laid the foundation for Eckland Motors in Keokuk.  She had an entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic that was instrumental in growing the business.  She had been employed for thirty-five years until her retirement.  Jan worked hard her entire life.  She was the manager of Keokuk Park Apartments, worked at an accounting firm, and owned multiple businesses with Galen.  These businesses included M&E Arcade (Paddock, Wizard Worlds), tanning salons, Nemo’s Restaurant, Keokuk Motors, and finally Eckland Motors since 1992.

     As a young girl, Jan was a member of Girl Scouts.  She later became a leader for her daughter’s class through elementary school and then served as a leader for her granddaughter’s class and earned a ten-year pin.

     She loved going out to eat at local restaurants with Galen and friends.  She enjoyed bargain shopping, hot tubs, and traveling.  She enjoyed paper crafts, particularly making greeting cards. 

     She was a teacher of many things to her family; passing on her financial savvy and rules of living a good life.  She was a great listener and gave the best advice.  She had mental strength beyond measure.

     Jan enjoyed spending time with her family above all else and took great pleasure in making arrangements for special trips with them.  One of the highlights was a family cruise in 2016 where Jan and Galen renewed their wedding vows with all their children and grandchildren in attendance. 

     Jan was known for her tremendous generosity and kind heart.  She was always giving of her time and treasures to her family and to others in need.  She gave each of her grandchildren money one holiday season and challenged them to use the funds to help the less fortunate.  It made her extremely happy to hear from each child how they put their money to work to help someone else.

     A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Crossview Church in Keokuk, IA with Pastor Kevin Hardcastle officiating.  Following the service there will be a time of food and fellowship at the church.

     Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.  

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com