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Lawrence “Larry” Lee Eickstaedt, 86, passed away on April 17, 2026.
Born in Davenport on July 20, 1939, Larry was raised in Storm Lake, where growing up on a farm fostered a lifelong love of nature, science and the outdoors.
He earned a bachelor of science in biology from Buena Vista University, a master of science in zoology from the University of Iowa, and a Ph.D. in marine biology from Stanford University’s Hopkins Marine Station.
In 1970, Larry moved to Olympia, Wash., as one of the founding faculty members of The Evergreen State College. During his 26-year career, he taught biology and helped shape Evergreen's interdisciplinary approach to education. He was known as an inspiring teacher, thoughtful mentor and respected scientist whose work spanned marine and freshwater biology, natural history, restoration ecology and environmental studies.
Following his retirement in 1996, Larry embraced life as a poet, stone sculptor, community volunteer and advocate for environmental stewardship. He was active with organizations including Garden-Raised Urban Bounty (GRuB), Friends of the Farmers Market, Homes First, the Olympia Poetry Network, and The Nature Conservancy. He was also a familiar and cherished presence in Olympia’s coffee shops and restaurants, where his warmth, wit and curiosity earned him countless friendships.
Larry’s love of sports and learning extended to his family. His grandchildren affectionately knew him as “Papa Duck,” a nickname inspired by his love of ducks and his playful Donald Duck impression. He delighted in sharing his passions, whether teaching a grandchild how to read a baseball box score or exploring the natural world together.
Larry was preceded in death by his wife Joan Lynch and his son Christopher.
He is survived by his children, John Eickstaedt and Rachel Grant; his grandchildren: Roger, Mason and Cooper; and his stepchildren and step-grandchildren.
Larry will be remembered as a devoted father and grandfather, pioneering educator, lifelong naturalist, creative spirit and a man whose curiosity, kindness and commitment to community left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
A graveside memorial service will be held at Storm Lake Cemetery on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 2 p.m.
