Russell Charles Eskow

Russell Charles "Charlie" Eskow

June 26, 1949 - July 2, 2026

Russell "Charlie" Eskow, 77, of Hackettstown, New Jersey, passed away on July 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service, a love for family, adventure and the outdoors.

A lifelong resident of Hackettstown, Russell graduated from Hackettstown High School in 1967. A true craftsman, he worked as a Black Seal Boiler Operator, contractor, and property manager.

Russell committed 50+ years of his life to protecting others, serving with distinction across multiple fire agencies. His leadership and bravery were evident throughout his career, where he served as Steward of the Tri-County Fire Company, Chief of the Butler Park Fire Company, was a Life Member of the Vigilant Hook & Ladder Company No. 1 of the Hackettstown Fire Department, and a District Fire Warden At-Large for the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. He was also a Fire Inspector for the town of Hackettstown's Fire Prevention Bureau, where he earned a Life Saved award. To those he served with, Russell was a pillar of strength, a mentor, and a true embodiment of the firefighter brotherhood.

​When not answering the call of duty, Russell was happiest in nature. An avid outdoorsman, he found peace fishing, hunting, boating, and sharing his love for the wilderness with family. Russell also possessed a passion for photography, mechanics and avionics, frequently capturing memories with his camera, racing cars at Island Dragway or flying small aircraft around the area.

Russell took great pride in his family. He is survived by his wife, 6 children, 16 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren, as well as siblings, many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. He will be remembered and missed by all.

Services will be held at Maguire Scala Memorial Home, 124 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840.

Fire personnel may pay their respects on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 4:00-5:00pm.

Family, friends, and public are welcomed from 5:00-8:00pm.

A religious service will take place in the funeral home on Saturday, July 11, at 12:00pm.

Interment will follow at Pequest Union Cemetery, Great Meadows, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Russell's honor to the New Jersey Fireman's Home or Blood Cancer United (formally The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society).

Funeral services have been entrusted to Maguire Memorial Home and Cremation Services, 124 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840.