Gale "Ike" Robert Eichhorst

UPDATE:

Gale Robert Eichhorst, 75, passed away at his home on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, September 24 in the Fellowship Hall of Our Savior Lutheran Church located at 1103 North Broad Street, Mankato, MN with food and fellowship to follow. Burial will take place Monday, September 25 at 10:00 AM at First Lutheran Cemetery in Waldorf, MN.

Gale, better known as “Ike,” was born July 28, 1948 in Waseca, Minnesota to Iraline (Ewert) and George Eichhorst. He was the oldest of three boys and grew up on the family farm outside of Waldorf. He graduated from Waldorf-Pemberton High School in 1966. He served for four years in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Germany. He later attended Mankato State College where he obtained a degree in Sociology and Corrections, although he always said his favorite college course was Underwater Basket Weaving. Ike had a great sense of humor and was the life of the party.

Ike owned and operated Better Housekeeping Vacuums in Mankato until his retirement in 2014. His miniature schnauzer dog, Mickey, was a beloved “spokesdog” for the business. As a small business owner he made a point to support other small businesses in the community. He was also a strong supporter of the arts and local artists.

Ike was a collector and connector throughout his life. He collected carnival glass and was known among the carnival glass convention circuit for his showmanship and award winning displays, as well as his generosity and joviality. Ike loved to travel and made friends all across the country. He had a knack for connecting people and introduced his brother Garvin to his future spouse, Sue. Ike was a thoughtful, kind person who went out of his way to make new acquaintances feel welcome at all gatherings. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

Ike was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by two brothers, Garvin (Sue) Eichhorst of Mankato and Greig (Susan) Eichhorst of Rosemount; four nieces Carly (Matt Lee) Eichhorst of Apple Valley, Cassie Eichhorst of Mankato, Krista Eichhorst of Mankato, and Shannon (Ryan) Tucker of Rosemount; nephew Sean Johnson of St. Paul; aunt Margaret Ewert of Mankato; cousins and many friends.