John Edward Ekman, Jr.

John “Johnny” Ekman, Jr. was born in Norfolk, VA in September 1, 1959 and sadly passed away in Howardsville, VA on December 15, 2022. Those that knew him are very familiar with a Robbin Thompson song “Sweet Virginia Breeze.” He loved to crank up that song to Maximum Volume purely for others’ benefit and any neighbors close by. When the song was over, he’d start it all over again and continue to sing until all in attendance ultimately felt The Breeze.

When visiting Johnny in his home, everyone knew he would have a meal in mind for them, a great selection of beer in the fridge, a faithful dog by his side, and some good tunes on the stereo. Johnny wasn’t a musician, but there wasn’t much he didn’t know about music—especially Bluegrass and, boy, could he kick up some dust! He was always ready for a road trip to the beach, to the top of a mountain, or a music festival. He liked to introduce people to new place they had never been before. Johnny is now at a place he hasn’t been to before. Hopefully, when it is our time to go to this “New Place,” we will reunite and start the fun and madness all over again.

There is not enough space here to note what an interesting life Johnny led. He was a graduate of Florida Institute of Technology in Jensen Beach, a proud Navy Veteran, expert scuba diver, keen paddler of a canoe, apt Ultimate Frisbee teammate, stout animal advocate, and world traveler—having been to places most will only see or read about in a National Geographic Magazine.

Johnny and his family: mom, Faye; dad, John; and sister, Christy now thank you ALL for the memories and adventures that were shared over the last 63 years of his life. The whole Ekman Family have been solid community members of Albemarle County, running “The Trading Post” on Route 29 in North Garden, VA for approximately 35 years. John, Sr. handing over the reins to John, Jr. and his sidekick sister, Christy, 20 years ago.

Johnny’s services will be private, but there will be a celebration of life at some point in the future, when we can relive all the tales of time spent with out dear friend, Johnny. His presence will be forever missed.

Please, consider making a donation in Johnny’s name to:

Service Dogs of Virginia, PO Box 408, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Family and friends are welcome to share pictures and memories at thackerbrothers.com.

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