Joshua Paul ‘Ike’ Eisenhauer
Joshua Paul “Ike” Eisenhauer, 42, of Anna Maria, died at home Nov. 14 with his service dog Nala watching over him.
He was born Aug. 11, 1981, in Euless, Texas, to Mark Paul Eisenhauer and Dawn Denise Erickson.
He graduated from Fossil Ridge High School in 1999 and earned an associate degree at Tarrant County Junior College in 2003. He also attended North Texas University. His many jobs included crew work for the city of Watauga, golf caddy and security officer.
In 2005, he joined the U.S. Army. As a staff sergeant in the 82nd Airborne in Afghanistan, he looked out for his men and fellow NCOs, putting their needs above his own, helping to carry their load when he could, lifting them up and caring for them even when his combat injuries were most severe.
He received many medals and ribbons for his honorable service.
In 2019, He moved to Durham, North Carolina, and, in 2020, Nala became his faithful companion and service dog.
He worked as a dog trainer for Joanne the Dog Lady until he moved to Anna Maria in June 2022.
According to his family, he gave love, leadership, support, and a sense of safety to his many acquaintances. He shared his big smile and happy laugh, felt your pain and empathetically provided hope. He saw the best in everyone and respected their opinions. “He was the sprinkles on your life. The light that makes everything a bit more beautiful, special moments a bit sweeter, every laugh a bit deeper. For all who loved him he was there for us. He was our best friend and brother.”
Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1, at Shannon Funeral Home, 1015 14th St. W., Bradenton, with a burial service at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota.
A celebration of life will begin at 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, starting at Bayfront Park in Anna Maria with sharing memories. Snacks and water will be provided. The celebration will continue 5:15-6 p.m. at North Shore Cafe, 304 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, with sharing of memorabilia and pictures, cupcakes and cookies. The celebration will progress to Bortell’s Lounge, 10002 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 6-6:30 p.m., with pizza and a toast for Joshua, or Ike, as he was known to his Army buddies.
Memorial donations may be made to a Yale Law School fund that assists veterans with legal issues at forhumanity.yale.edu/. To reach the fund, click give now, followed by “College & Schools,” then select the law school, and click the “Other” option. On the next page, enter the following: 30762-Yale Law School, Veterans Legal Services Clinic. At checkout, you will be prompted to provide a tribute for Joshua.
Mr. Eisenhauer is survived by his father, Mark; mother Dawn Erickson and husband James Springer; stepsister Elizabeth Zoe Springer; grandmother Elizabeth, godparents Bill and Terrie Bacon and their children, Amy, Billy and Stacey; along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Martha Sue Wright
Martha Sue Wright, 70, of Cortez, died Oct. 20.
She was born June 1, 1953, in Avon Park to John Curtis and Lena Schwall Wright.
She was a proud graduate of the University of South Florida. She served as chief financial officer for the Chiles Hospitality Group for most of her professional career.
She was the first female member of the Crewe of Hernando DeSoto and served as president of the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society. She also was very active in her support of Gulf Shore Animal League.
Her life will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at the outdoor pavilion at Sandbar Seafood & Spirits, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria.
Memorial donations may be made to Gulf Shore Animal League or Tidewell Hospice, where Martha received loving care.
Ms. Wright is survived by daughters Chelsea and husband Onesi Matelau and Cassandra and Tim Rush, all of Bradenton; sisters Sammie Long of Wauchula and Nancy Ingram of Haines City; and many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.