Obituary
Eric F. Brekke, MD
Eric F. Brekke MD, 54, passed away unexpectedly on June 30, 2015, doing one of the things he loved—bicycling on country roads.
He was born on January 23, 1961 and grew up in Elroy, WI. He married his wife Sandy in 1990 and had three beautiful children, Andrew, Hannah and Sara.
After graduating from Royall High School in 1979, Eric completed undergrad at Luther College graduating with degrees in biology and chemistry. Following college, Eric attended The University of Wisconsin Medical School, and completed a general surgery residency at The University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. Following residency, he and his wife moved to Gloucester, England where he spent a year studying colorectal surgery. Eric has worked for 22 years as a well-respected general surgeon at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Eric has been an inspiration in every aspect. He lived for his family and was the best possible father and husband anyone could have had; he defined unconditional love. He had a passion for learning everything he could get his hands on– from history and politics, to raising bees in the country. Eric and his family loved to travel, learning about the world and its people, and gaining friends all over the globe. He cared deeply for every person who crossed his path and gave whatever time or gifts he had before thinking of himself. Eric was truly the most exceptional man to have known.
Eric was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Doris Brekke.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sandy, and their three children, Andrew (22), Hannah (20), and Sara (16), his two sisters Barb Underwood (Chris) and Carol Behm (Richard), his in-laws, Dave and Sue Eber, Todd and Linda Eber, Alan and Laura Eber, and Teresa and Buddy Lee, along with many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by an incredible group of friends who have brought countless memories full of joy and laughter.
Eric’s family would like to express their gratitude to Eric’s colleagues and all the staff at Gundersen Health System who knew and loved Eric and walked this journey with us. Also, to our family and friends who have surrounded us with love.
There will be a Celebration of Life honoring Eric, to be held on Tuesday July 7, 2015 at 6:00pm, upstairs in the Ballroom of the La Crosse Center. Gathering and reflections will start at 7:00pm.
Memorials may be directed toward Gundersen Medical Foundation for the Medical Education -General Surgery Residency program.
You have my condolences, Dr. Brekke saved my life about 2 1/2 years ago. I will always remember him in my prayers. Dr. Brekke was going away for the weekend but decided something didn’t seem right so came back to the hospital and performed emergency surgery. Without that surgery I probably would have not lived over the weekend. Once again I will always remember Dr. Brekke in my prayers.
Dr. Brekke saved my husbands life many years ago during emergency surgery. My family did not suffer the loss of a husband and father because of his skill and commitment. How sad that the same fate was not his. May his family be ever proud of the gifted and kind person he was. Rest in peace.
Sandy and family my deepest sympathy to you on the loss of Eric. My prayer is that God will comfort you during this difficult time and the days to come.