Dennis R. Eckrote

Dennis R. Eckrote, Sr., 74, of Sugarloaf Heights Rd., Drums died at his home on Friday morning, Feb. 20, 2026, after an illness.

Born in Hazleton on Oct. 29, 1951, he was a son of the late Russell D. and Johanna L. (Slovik) Eckrote. He resided in Drums for 44 years.

Dennis was a 1969 graduate of West Hazleton High School and graduated from Luzerne County Community College with an associate degree in accounting.

He was employed as a heavy equipment operator by Slusser Brothers of West Hazleton from 1977 to 2018 when he retired.

He was an avid golfer and enjoyed going into the woods on his property and cutting firewood. Dennis was the proud owner of his pet dog, Pistol.

Dennis is survived by his wife, the former Kathy A. Slotterback, with whom he celebrated 50 years of marriage on July 19, 2025; two sons: Dennis R. Eckrote, Jr., and his wife Melissa of Selinsgrove and Paul Eckrote of Drums; a daughter Jamie Eckrote of Weatherly; a grandson, Dennis R. Eckrote, Iii; a granddaughter, Olivia Eckrote; and a sister Gloria, wife of Daniel Davis of Zion Grove. There are also numerous nieces and nephews.

By his request there will not be any funeral services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Dean W. Kriner, Inc., Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 325 Market St., Bloomsburg.