[br][br]Gerald (Ike) Phillip Eickstadt, a longtime resident of Millwood passed away 01/24/2016. Joining his wife (of 50 years) Muriel Theresa and their son Fredrick John in Heaven.
Ike enlisted in the Army at age 16 and after 21 years retired with the rank of E-8. He was a Korean War Veteran, POW and recipient of the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Commendation Medal. In the first conflict between US and North Korean forces (7/1950, Task Force Smith) Ike was one of a battalion of infantrymen ordered to fight a delaying action to give time for US forces to arrive. Almost half of the soldiers were killed or captured. (Ike was a Prisoner of War). Their actions managed to delay the Korean forces for 7 hours.
After his military service concluded, Ike went on to work at Bower Machinery/ Western States Equipment and retired after 24 years.
He was very active in community service and served as a trustee for the Eagles Aerie 2, a member of VFW 51 and Commander of the Honor Guard. He was also Commander of the Disabled American Veterans.
Ike's hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping, bowling, snowmobiling and riding his ATV. He was a member of the Back Country ATV Club.
Ike was a beloved member of our family. He taught us about honesty, honor and respect and that family is not always about blood; family can also come from the heart.
Ike is survived by his brother Clifford Eickstadt; sisters Annie Brinkley (Larry); Clara Roath and numerous nieces and nephews. Also, Kristy Bennett (Chris); grandson C.J. Bennett (Taylor) and Connie Johnston. He enjoyed many good times with companion Carmella Arp during the 12 years they were together. Special thanks to the Arp family who always included Ike in all their family gatherings even after their mother's passing.
At Ike's request, there will be no services in Spokane. There will be a private interment in Colorado Springs, Co.