Paul George Eklund

Found peace surrounded by family in his home on May 24, 2009, age 67 after battling cancer for the past 11 months. Beloved husband of Julie Starks, loving father of Kristin (Dean) Haverkampf from Grayslake, IL and Paul J (Jennifer) from Anthem, AZ. Doting oppa of Ethan and Sam and grandpa of Abby and Emily Haverkampf. He is also survived by his mother, Clarice, Wayzata, MN and his in-laws, Dale and Barb Starks, Morris, IL. Paul was preceded in death by his father Paul H. and his first wife Julia S. (Lyons). Paul served 27 years as an optometrist and Commanding Officer in the US Navy where he is remembered as a mentor, leader and teacher of those who served with him. He was an ad hoc faculty member of Carthage College for over 10 years teaching management and science classes in the evening school. Paul was a sweet, fun, lovable man and a friend to many. He lived life to the fullest by enjoying travel, skiing, golf, theater, cooking, being a grandpa, working out at the WAC and was an active member of St. Stephen the Martyr Lutheran Church. In sickness, he continued to live and fight to get better. The family would like to thank the health care providers at Froedtert Hospital for the compassionate care given to Paul this past year and the VNA for his home hospice care. Memorials to the church or the Melanoma Research Foundation appreciated.