Josh Liljenquist’s Uncle by Marriage

Thomas Calvin Eckdahl

Thomas Calvin Eckdahl was Josh Liljenquist’s uncle by marriage and the husband of Josh’s paternal aunt, Tracy Eckdahl. Tom spent decades helping care for Chester Woods County Park, but Josh remembers him most as a quiet man of faith who loved his family, understood nature, and never needed recognition for doing what was right.

Quiet character, faith, nature, and presence.

A quiet teacher

Josh remembers Tom waking very early, beginning the day with coffee, and speaking selectively. When Tom spoke, Josh felt his words mattered. Josh does not remember hearing Tom speak badly about another person.

At Chester Woods, Tom taught Josh about plants, trees, grasses, gardening, fishing, swimming, and caring for land.

Chester Woods as a family place

Chester Woods was not only Tom’s workplace for Josh. It was a place for paddle boats, fishing, swimming, gardens, family visits, and childhood memories with cousins. Josh remembers Tom treating Tracy with devotion and creating a home where Josh and Jacob felt loved.

A legacy that continues

Tom’s passing taught Josh to value ordinary family time because people are not guaranteed another holiday, conversation, or gathering. Josh believes Tom is with God, and that his example of faithful, quiet service will remain with the family.

A public legacy at Chester Woods

Tom’s service continues to be recognized after his death. Olmsted County identifies the controlled disabled-veterans hunt at Chester Woods as the Tom Eckdahl Memorial DAV Hunt.

Olmsted County has also remembered Tom for his servant-leadership style, his engagement with park visitors, and the environment he created for volunteers.

More about this story

Family ties

A larger family legacy

Read Legacy of Service for the broader family story and People Who Shaped Josh for this growing collection.