Jack ‘Kenny’ Eckstrom Jr.. 85, of Betterton, MD passed away peacefully at Christiana Care- Newark on October 20, 2026.

Kenny was born on March 24, 1941 to the late Jack Sr. and Doris Sullivan Eckstrom. He was raised in Pottstown, PA where he attended school graduating from Pottstown High School. After high school Kenny enlisted in the United States Coast Guard where he proudly served for over 4 years. During his time in the Coast Guard he earned the rank of Boatswain’s Mate 3rd class (BM3), serving mostly on the Pacific Coast. Upon his honorable discharge, Kenny became a truck driver and drove for various companies in the Pottstown area. In 1973 he and his Wife Merceda purchased a summer home in Betterton, and after retiring in 2000, they were able to enjoy more time there.

Kenny loved living near the water. He was happiest on the beach in Betterton and on a boat on the Chesapeake Bay. He would take golf cart rides around town with his favorite granddog Loki, talking with local residents, taking in the sights, and just enjoying the outdoors. When he wasn’t outdoors he liked to watch Judge Judy and the Grit Channel, as well as an afternoon ritual of “News and Booze”, where he would enjoy a drink while taking in the local events of the day. He was also a member of the Betterton American Legion Post 246, where he was a former post commander.

Kenny is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years Merceda Eckstrom.

He is survived by his children Jack “Skip” Eckstrom 3rd (Heather) and Maryjane Fillman; sister Doris Jean Sweeney; grandchildren Jordan Eckstrom, Kendall “Lizzie” Eckstrom, Alyssa Fillman, and Ashley Fillman; and great-grandchildren Dayton and Atlas Eckstrom.

A Joint Memorial Gathering will take place for both Kenny and Merceda on November 14, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm in the Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech, 118 W. Cross St. Galena, MD, where a Memorial Service with Military Honors will begin at 12 pm. 

A celebration of Life will immediately follow the service at the Betterton American Legion Post 246, 11 6th Ave, Betterton, MD 21610.