Eric Spaeth

Eric John Spaeth, age 44, passed away on October 25, 2026, leaving behind a family who loves him beyond words and memories that will last a lifetime.

A memorial gathering of family and friends to celebrate the life of Eric and to share memories will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at 21003 County Road 101, Long Prairie, MN 56347. All who knew and loved Eric are welcome to join his family in remembering the life he lived and the memories he leaves behind.

Eric was born on December 8, 1981, he grew up in Grey Eagle and graduated from Melrose High School in 2000. He was a hardworking, dedicated man who took pride in providing for his family and building something of his own. On April 17, 2004, Eric married the love of his life, Nikki, in Melrose. Together, they shared 22 years of marriage, building a life and a family filled with love, laughter, hard work, and countless memories. Through all the years, they stood side by side through life's ups and downs, always supporting one another and facing whatever came their way together. They were more than husband and wife; they were best friends, partners, and each other's biggest supporters. They shared dreams, raised a family, built a business, and created a life that was truly their own. They were the kind of couple who would do absolutely anything for each other, and their love showed in the life they worked so hard to build together. They were looking forward to celebrating their 23rd wedding anniversary in April. Although their years together were cut far too short, the love and life they shared will never be taken away. Twenty-two years of memories, love, and a lifetime of moments that Nikki will carry in her heart forever.

At just 21 years old, Eric took a chance on himself and started EJS Lawn and Landscaping. What began as his own dream grew into a business that he and his wife, Nikki, built together. Eric didn't just show up to do a job; he put his heart into every single one. He took pride in his work, cared about what he did, and believed in giving everything his best. EJS was more than just a business to Eric. It was a piece of him, something he and Nikki shared together.

Along with his lawn and landscaping work, Eric also took on the important responsibility of digging graves for surrounding communities. He served many towns, including Long Prairie, Greenwald, Freeport, Melrose, and many, many more. It was another example of his willingness to work hard and serve others. His work touched many families and communities, even in ways that may not always have been seen.

If you knew Eric, you knew how much he loved the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, spearing, Ranger rides, and fishing trips were some of his greatest joys. He also had a special love for his cows and his hobby farm. Whether he was taking care of his animals, working around the farm, or climbing onto the tractor for a drive, those were the simple things that made him happy. He loved being outdoors, getting his hands dirty, and staying busy. There was something special about getting away, spending time on the lake, enjoying the outdoors, and making memories along the way. Those who shared those moments with him will forever hold onto the stories, laughs, and memories that came with them.

Eric was also someone who had a big heart when it came to helping others. He was always willing to lend a hand, put in the work, or be there when someone needed him. He didn't need recognition for the things he did. He simply cared about helping people and getting things done. But above everything else, Eric was a dad, and his three children were a huge part of his world. Madison, Rylan, and Natalie each held a special place in his heart. Being their dad was one of the most important parts of his life. He loved watching them grow, spending time with them, and being part of their lives. Whether it was everyday moments, family time, sharing his love of the outdoors, or simply being together, those were the moments that mattered most. He worked hard to give his children a good life and was proud of the family he and Nikki created. No matter how busy life got, his family was always at the center of it all.

Eric and Nikki spent years building a home, raising their children, working together, and making memories that will live on for generations. The love he had for his children and wife cannot be measured by words. Madison, Rylan, and Natalie will forever carry pieces of their dad with them - in the lessons he taught them, the things he loved, the stories they share, and the memories they will never forget. His love will continue to guide them through every stage of life. Although there will be countless moments when they wish he were there beside them, they will always have the comfort of knowing just how deeply he loved them.

Eric is survived by his loving wife, Nikki Spaeth; his children, Madison (Clayton), Rylan, and Natalie; his mother Judy; and his brothers, Aaron and Jared. Preceded in death by his father, John Spaeth; uncle, Tom Spaeth; great-uncle, Paul Spaeth; grandparents, Alan and Betty Spaeth, and Vito Marinelli. He will also be deeply missed by extended family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his 44 years.

There is no way to put into words how much Eric will be missed. His absence will be felt in the everyday moments, the family gathering, the hunting seasons, the fishing trips, around the hobby farm, and in the work he spent so many years building. There will always be things that remind his family of him, stories that will continue to be told, and memories that will bring both smiles and tears.

Eric leaves behind more than a business, more than a lifetime of hard work, and more than memories. He leaves behind a family who will carry his love with them every day and a legacy built through the life he lived, the people he helped, and the love he gave.

A husband, a dad, a son, a brother, a friend, and a hardworking man who loved with his whole heart. Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.