Michael Donald Ecklund, affectionately known as “Bugsy,” was born on March 28, 1962,
in Minneapolis, MN to Ray and Pam (Marcotte) Ecklund. He attended school in Crookston, MN, graduating from Central High School in 1981. After graduation, Bugsy was employed at a ski resort in Colorado, and during that time appeared on the cover of a skiing magazine. When he moved back to Crookston, he was employed by Tiedeman Farms. On June 28, 1985, he was united in marriage to Gayle Johnson in Crookston. Bugsy then began working for his father-in-law on the WHL Johnson family farm. After retiring from farming he moved to Baudette, MN to work as a fishing guide, as well as doing other odd jobs. Several years ago he and Gayle purchased their resort known as Bugsy’s on Bostic.
Bugsy enjoyed the outdoors, whether it be hunting, golfing, bonfires, or fishing, fishing, and more fishing! He was an avid Minnesota Gopher sports fan and loved hockey. Special time spent with his grandson was truly one of a kind. Bugsy was passionate about watching storms while sitting in his garage with the tunes on Hair Nation cranked!
Bugsy enjoyed spending time with friends no matter what they ended up doing, and always had a good time with his “Muggs” pool buddies. He was very quick-witted and loved to make people laugh. His passion for mowing the lawn was outstanding, and no matter what, it always had to be perfect! Bugsy was a very kind, generous, loving guy, and always left a lasting impression with everyone he met. His memory will be forever treasured.
Bugsy is survived by Gayle, his beloved wife of 33 years; their children: Amanda, Samantha and Wyatt; grandson, Bauer; parents, Ray and Pam; brother, Mark; sister and brother-in-law, Dawn and Tom Skjei; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Marilyn Wahouske; and nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents; Aunt Midge; and parents-in-law, Walter and Lucille Johnson.
A memorial visitation with Bugsy’s family will be held at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home in Crookston on Thursday, May 9, 2019, from 4-6 pm with a prayer service and time to share memories. The Very Rev. Vincent Miler of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception will be presiding.
Online register: www.stenshoelhouske.com
A second visitation will be held at Helgeson Funeral Home, Baudette, MN, on Friday, May 10, 2019, from 4-6 pm with sharing of memories at 6 pm.
Online register: www.helgesonfuneralhome.com
