Jack E. Eklund

Jack E. Eklund, a lifelong farmer, rancher, and devoted member of the Goodland community, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born on January 27, 1938, to Minnie and Carl Eklund, Jack grew up with strong family values and a love for the land that guided him throughout his life. He shared his childhood with his beloved sisters — Betty Lou Eklund(deceased), Shirley Burke, Carlene Herl(deceased), L. Ann Domsch, and Faye Cooper — and carried those close family ties with him always.

Jack graduated from Sherman County High School in 1956.

On November 27, 1968, Jack married the love of his life, Marilyn Eklund (Schield). Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and family. Jack was the proud father of Shanna Tibbetts (Todd) and Jacque Livengood (Tyson), and the devoted grandfather of Eric Tibbetts, Emma Tibbetts, Brooke Livengood, Blake Livengood, and Blayze Livengood. His family was his greatest joy, and he never missed an opportunity to support and celebrate them.

A lifelong farmer and rancher, Jack found purpose and pride in working the land and raising livestock. In 1986, he began a new chapter in his career when he entered the insurance business, where his integrity, hard work, and compassion for others earned him the trust of countless friends and clients.

Jack’s commitment to his community was evident in everything he did. He was a member of Goodland Emmanuel Lutheran Church, the Goodland Elks Club, and the VFW, and he could often be found lending a helping hand wherever it was needed. Jack was a proud supporter of Goodland 4-H and Goodland Vo-Tech School, always encouraging young people to work hard, learn new skills, and give back to others. His generosity and quiet leadership made a lasting impact on the Goodland area, where he was known as someone who could always be counted on.

He was also an enthusiastic fan of local sports, cheering faithfully for the Goodland Cowboys and Cowgirls, and rarely missing a game.

Those who knew Jack will remember his steady presence, his kindness, and his unwavering dedication to family, faith, and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched and, in the community, he helped build.

Memorial contributions may be made out to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church or to Northwest Kansas Fair and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons- Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.