Kenneth L. Eckhart Sr.

Kenneth L. Eckhart Sr., 74, of Nazareth, went home to the Lord on May 11, 2023. He passed away at his home surrounded by the love of his family. Kenneth was born on August 11, 1948, to the late Henry and Elva Eckhart. He and the love of his life, Sophie, celebrated 54 years of marriage before her passing in 2021. Kenneth (Kenny) graduated from Nazareth Area High School, Class of 1966, and the Pocono Institute of Taxidermy. Early on, he was self-employed as a general contractor for many years before becoming a licensed taxidermist, owning Kenny’s Taxidermy Shop. He was also a beloved softball coach. Known as Mr. Eckhart, he coached for the Upper Nazareth Clippers, the t-ball team, and the Nazareth Blue Eagles JV, where he loved all the girls like his own. His greatest passion was the outdoors, hunting, fishing, walks in Jacobsburg, and spending time at the family cabin at Pecks Pond. He loved his grandsons, who he often got in trouble with, teaching them a love of nature, and could be found yelling in the stands of every football game and track meet. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who loved him. His big hugs will be missed here but will be felt all the way from Heaven. 

Kenny is survived by his daughter, Tracy Huffsmith and her husband, Mark; grandsons, Anthony and Henry Huffsmith; brother, Howard; sister-in-law, Yolanda Carhart; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by a son, Kenneth Jr., brothers, Henry and William, and sisters, Beulah, Arlene, and Ruth (Evelyn). 

In honor of Kenneth’s wishes, there will be no services. The family will celebrate his life privately at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be presented to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in loving memory of Kenny. Online condolences may be offered below.