Jared Eckroth

With heavy hearts, we celebrate the incredible life of Jared James Eckroth, a man whose kindness, strength, and unwavering love left an indelible mark on everyone he met. 

Jared was born on July 26, 1973, and grew up in Mandan, North Dakota. He graduated from Mandan High School in 1991 and proudly served his country in the Army Reserves from 1991 to 1998. Jared spent his life dedicated to helping others, which is a true testament to his generous spirit and selflessness.

Jared was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. He married the love of his life, Ashley, on June 9, 2023, and together they established their new home in Washburn. They shared a beautiful bond filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Jared was a proud and loving father to Samantha (Travis) Zeeb, Zachary (Persephanie) Eckroth, Ali, Abby, Landyn, Jace, Kennalei, and Rhilyn. He adored his grandchildren, Jude, Aurora, Finley, Kenai, Kehlani, and was ecstatic about the arrival of grand-baby Eckroth in 2025.

Jared was the beloved son of Rick and Kathy Eckroth, the cherished brother of Carrie (Ken) Michlitsch and Tonya (Nute) Bishop, and the adored son-in-law of Bob and Brenda Ternes and Allan and Joan Bahm. He was also a proud uncle to many nieces and nephews, a dear nephew, a cousin to countless family members, and a loyal friend. He is now reunited in eternal peace with those who preceded him in death: Dan and Irene Eckroth, Joe and Minnie Schlinger; Shane Bahm, Larry Becker, uncles, Harold Schlinger, David Schlinger and grandbaby, Stella Delilah. 

Jared's career reflected his big heart, hard work ethic and dedication to helping others. He worked as a welder and heavy equipment operator, a firefighter/medic for Dakota Gasification Company, a paramedic for Standing Rock Ambulance, and a paramedic/EMT for Metro Ambulance. He served as a volunteer firefighter for the Mandan Fire Department and later as the Safety Coordinator for ICI. In each role, Jared’s compassion and bravery shone brightly, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Jared’s love for his family was unparalleled, and he found joy in life’s simplest pleasures. He loved cook-offs with Ashley, showing his mastery of the grill and smoker. Christmas was his favorite time of year, and he brought the holiday spirit to life with music and celebration—even if some thought playing Christmas songs right after Halloween was a bit early! He cherished quiet moments by the river, swimming with the kids, chasing one of many dogs, most recently Harlee-his sidekick, dancing with Ashley and the kids while listening to music on their deck together, playing with the grandkids and creating memories with those he loved.

Jared was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan, a passionate hunter and fisherman, and a Harley rider who embraced the open road with many of his biking Brothers and Sisters. Last year, he proudly landed the biggest buck of his life, thanks to the help of his trusted spotters—Ashley, Jace, Kennalei, and Rhilyn. Music was his lifelong passion, and his drumbeats—whether on a set or in the air—echoed the rhythm of his vibrant and joyful soul.

Jared will be remembered for his kind heart, infectious enthusiasm for life, and the love he shared so freely with his family and friends. He leaves a legacy of compassion, dedication, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who know him.

Rest easy, Jared. Your love and light will never fade.