Obituary: James William Eickert

 James William Eickert, a beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026 after a brief illness with his loving wife, Judy by his side. Jim was born January 12, 1940, son of the late Norman Sr and Mellon Eickert. He built his life in Brillion, WI that was filled with love, friendship and cherished memories. 

Jim was a devoted family man, deeply committed to his wife of 63 years Judy. They were blessed with four wonderful children. Lisa {Rod) Taylor, Susan (Michael)O’Brien and grandson Dean Eickert, Russell Eickert, Eric {Lacy) Eickert and granddaughter Whitney and grandson Chase. 

Jim is also survived by his sisters, Gloria Schmahl, Lois Cmejla and brother Terry {Lydia) Eickert as well as many nieces & nephews. Jim enjoyed spending time and joking around with his nephew Dave. 

Jim is preceded in death by his parents Norman Sr and Mellon Eickert, father-in-law, mother-in-law Lee & Elsie Lyon and brothers, Wayne, Norman Jr. and Keith{Bomber) Eickert. 

Jim attended Brillion High School where he was part of the basketball and football teams. After high school, Jim enlisted in the Army Reserve and was stationed in San Diego with his best friend Fred Hillman. Jim and Fred were able to spend time together before Jim’s passing. Upon returning home, Jim played on softball and bowling leagues. 

Jim was a hard worker at every job he worked at and instilled this in his children. Jim always spoke kindly about his time working at Henry Carsten & Son’s in Brillion. Jim was very happy to tour the mill when it reopened as wedding venue. As the “milkman” at the Brillion Dairy, Jim enjoyed meeting new customers & socializing with old ones. It wasn’t uncommon for Jim to help customers while on his route. It was a special day when his children were allowed to ride along in the milk truck. During his many years at the Brillion Iron Works, Jim was proud of his attendance and safety records. Both earned him many awards through the years. 

Jim enjoyed spending time with his children. Weekend trips to HoChunk in the Dells with Lisa, Rod, Russ, Susan, Judy & Rod’s family were something he really looked forward to. He enjoyed catching up with everyone and all the laughter that came after a few cocktails. Jim was disappointed that he rarely went home with a profit but was ready to schedule the next trip. Jim was ready to help his children whenever they needed help. He loved nothing more than helping Russ work in his back yard or fishing with Eric. Jim also had close relationships with his son in laws Michael and Rod and daughter in law Lacy. 

Jim loved spending time with his beloved grandkids. He was a proud grandparent while attending Dean’s annual fashion show to raise funds for the ARC of Fond du lac. While apple picking, Dean loved to follow grandpa around the orchard so they could “sample” the apples. Jim also loved going on the annual “up north” trips every October with Dean, Susan and Judy. Every year he told the same stories of where his brothers hunted, who lived there and the spot Bomber slid into the ditch. And every year they listened as if it was the first time hearing the stories. Jim loved watching Whitney and Chase in their different stages of growing. Grandpa always made sure he had their favorite ice cream in the freezer and candy bars. Jim loved going to cheer Whitney and Chase at their sporting events. This past summer, fishing with Chase was time he cherished, even if the fish weren’t biting. 

Jim was an avid hunter and fisherman his entire life. Whether it was hunting with his dad, brothers, friends and his son’s, You could find Jim’s suitcase usually packed a few weeks prior. In summers, Jim and Judy could be found fishing on one of the local lakes. Jim also had numerous friends he fished with. If you needed a fishing report, a call Jim was all you needed. Jim loved to go ice fishing and shared this love with his children and grandchildren. 

Jim touched all the lives of all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness and friendship. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

James chose not to have a celebration of life. 

The Eickert family extends heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring love, support and condolences during this difficult time. The family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice for the care and support they extended to Jim and his family.