Jean Neilson Eickholt

Jean Neilson Eickholt, age 92, passed away on Monday, May 29, 2017 in her Sylvania home.  Jean was born on July 15, 1924 to Charles and Florence Neilson (at Polyclinic Hospital) in New York City.  Her family moved to Toledo when she was young and she was a graduate of DeVilbiss High School, class of 1942. 

For all those who knew her, Jean was a caring, kind and considerate woman and mother who was quick to give to others any help and kindness they might require.  Nurturing her immediate and extended family was always a priority.  She was among the initial volunteers to the Flower Hospital Auxiliary.

Jean and her husband John Eickholt, Jr., who predeceased her in 2003, raised three children, first in West Toledo and then in Sylvania where they moved in 1962.  They enjoyed boating and fishing on the Great Lakes and later became active in the breeding and raising of quarter horses on their farms in Berkey and Metamora.  Until recent years Jean was very active and enjoyed figure skating, swimming, walking and riding her bike all over Sylvania, even one time to Westgate!

Jean was an excellent seamstress and for many years made much of her own clothing as well as clothing for her family.  Jean enjoyed playing duplicate bridge with her friends, fishing, and riding horses.  She was an amazing cook and the family always looked forward to her delicious cookies and pies.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, husband John, brother Bob Neilsen and sister Helen Greiner.  She is survived by her daughter, Sally Jean Eickholt Mason of Sylvania, sons William (Sheri) of Sylvania and John III (Sandy) of Dublin, Ohio.  She is also survived by grandchildren; William Eickholt II, Melissa (JR) Kidd, Sarah (Thomas) Darrow, Patrick (Jessica) Mason and Chris Erin Eickholt Mason, Jessica (Brad) Johnson, Ashley (Max) Olivine and Molly Eickholt.  She is survived by great grandchildren Paige Kidd, Morgan Mason, Max Mason, Katelyn Olivine, and Brinley Darrow.

The family would like to thank Jean’s care-givers, Heather Wallace, Jenna Conley, Patty Ferentini Nugent and Marilyn Figuieras.

We credit mom’s loving and capable medical team for giving her the best quality of life possible.  Hospice of Northwest Ohio nurses Diane Brenner and Tracy Szironi brought cheer and professionalism into our home.  She always looked forward to regular appointments with Dr. Darlene Fairchild and friendly staff who took a personal interest in her for decades, as did family dentist Dr. Paul Roebke’s group.

Last but not the least of the many contributers to Jean’s happy life was Bill Geha and the lifeguards at Highland Meadows.  Until two years ago, the highlight of the week was water-walking on Sunday mornings.  They accomodated her by providing a sling to het her safely out of the pool.  She so missed being there with the lovely people who made an extra effort to chat with her.

Reeb Funeral Home provided private services and interment at Toledo Memorial Park .

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a charity of their choice.