Carl “Dana” Ekelund, a beloved husband, father and brother, was peacefully called home to his Savior on March 1, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Born November 6, 1947, to Carl “Richard” and Mildred (Thatcher) Ekelund of Cranston, RI. He graduated from Cranston East H.S. and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree from URI in 1970. Dana married Charlayne Read, the love of his life, on October 21, 1972. They raised their three children Dana, Adam, and Sarah in Cranston, RI. He served on the early board of West Bay Christian Academy, where the children attended through 8th grade.
He served his country with honor as a 20-year member of the Air National Guard. His passion for aviation led him to share the excitement of airshows with his family, creating cherished memories. Dana also worked as a cable splicer high on the telephone poles and bucket trucks for Verizon (N.E.Telephone, AT&T, NYNEX, Bell Atlantic).
Called “Big Dana” by the Church youth group kids, he served as a long-time youth leader and church elder, as well as occasional preacher at Faith Chapel in Cranston for over 40 years. Throughout his life, God’s Word served as the lamp to his feet, and the light to his path, and he humbly sought to point others to Christ. Dana enjoyed surfing, sailing, bridge, pickled herring and watching ball games
Dana loved his family fiercely. Even in his final days, Dana continued to care for his loved ones, even when all he could do was hold them close. He is survived by his loving wife, Charlayne, of Cranston; children, Dana (Cary) of Cranston, Adam (Rebekah) of Fergus Falls, MN, Sarah (Travis) King of Cranston; many grandchildren, and sister, Karen Kavanagh.
In celebrating the life of Dana Ekelund, we honor the legacy he leaves of humbly serving his Lord and Savior in every facet of his life.
Celebration of Life Service: 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 18, 2024, at Faith Chapel, 43 Scituate Avenue Cranston, RI.
