Jeanette Dagmar Eckman

Jeanette Dagmar Eskildsen-Eckman passed away peacefully in the early morning on Monday, October 16, 2023.

Jeannette was born on December 20, 1935, in Portland, Oregon. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Eckman; father, Neils Eskildsen; mother, Johanna Eskildsen; brother, Paul Eskildsen and granddaughter, Emily Eckman.

During Jeanette’s childhood years she often helped her mother in the garden. It was here that she developed a lifelong love of gardening. She especially loved growing roses. Her yard was always home to many beautiful flowers throughout the years. During her early years Jeanette helped raise her younger brothers Paul and Ron due to the death of her father. She continued her schooling but also had to begin working at a young age. These times helped shape Jeanette’s strong work ethic and commitment to family, for the remainder of her life.

Jeanette graduated from Lincoln High School in Portland, Oregon. She then attended Portland State University. She continued her educational pursuits throughout her life, always taking classes that would help her improve and grow.

Jeanette married Harold Eckman, at St. Agatha’s Catholic Church in Portland, Oregon. A marriage that celebrated their 65th anniversary on December 31, 2020. Jeanette and Harold eventually settled in Milwaukie, Oregon, after purchasing a home where they would ultimately raise their family.

In the late 1950’s, Jeanette and Harold joined St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Milwaukie, Oregon. Jeanette remained an active member until her death. Deep to her heart was her Catholic faith. The church was a place where she made many lifelong friendships. Many of which included her friends in the church's Young Ladies Institute (YLI) in which she was a member for over 50 years. She especially loved the opportunity to sponsor new members entering the church.

As a mother, Jeanette participated with her children in a multitude of activities including Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H among many other activities. She was devoted to her family, spending many a weekend camping in places like Tumalo State Park and Crooked River Ranch among many others. There were also many summer road trips to national parks and South Dakota. As a grandmother, one of Jeanette’s biggest joys was spending time with her grandchildren. Whether it be attending their school activities, sporting events, or taking them on fun trips. Jeanette was always there as a mom and grandmother.

Jeanette and Harold opened their home to many children and exchange students, she was loved as a mother by all. She was a host mother to 27 international exchange students from many countries including Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Japan, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and Korea. Jeanette enjoyed traveling around Oregon and the Pacific Northwest with these students showing them the wonderful sights of the area. She remained in contact with most of them over the years and was able to visit many of the students’ families in their home countries during her travels.

Jeanette spent the majority of her working life in the medical field. She worked for Providence Health System for 25 years and loved the many friends she made there.

In retirement, Jeanette and Harold traveled extensively, including many cruises along with trips to Europe and Asia. Special to her were the trips that included her grandchildren, family and friends. She also spent her retirement years volunteering at the Milwaukie Senior Center, the Red Cross and for various events throughout the community. Jeanette always loved meeting new people.

In her final years, Jeanette resided at Homewood’s on the Willamette, an independent living facility where she made many new friends. Jeanette loved to bake and would regularly deliver treats for the coffee socials. She was known to often leave flowers, baked goods, or cards at a friend's door to brighten their day. She was very thankful for the kind people she met, and very much enjoyed her time living there.

Jeanette is survived by her children, son, David Eckman (wife Jo Ann), daughters, Mary Ann Casey (husband John), Janine Beth Organiz (husband Elizandro); grandchildren, Ashley Eckman (partner Madie Eckman), Daniel Eckman, Jacob Casey, Ryan Casey, and Ramon Organiz. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews and others that were special in her life including Lisa Sweet (husband Howard) and Todd Freeman (partner Kenith Ritch).

Throughout her life Jeanette offered a kind heart to those in need. She always invited people into her house and was concerned for their well-being. At dinner time, she was always prepared for unexpected guests, just in case.

Jeanette was thankful and proud of the achievements of her children and grandchildren. She remained a faithful Catholic throughout her life and lived her faith to the end. Jeanette was a blessing to us all and had a life well-lived.

A Rosary will be held 10:30 am, November 3, 2023, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Milwaukie, Oregon. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held immediately following the Rosary at 11:00 am.