Robert Eaton, Jr

Longtime Black Diamond resident Robert Byers Eaton, Jr. age 95, died July 27, 2011 in Bellevue, Washington. He was 95 years old. Robert was born May 13, 1916 in Waltham, Massachusetts to Robert Byers Eaton, Sr.and Emily (Barker) Eaton. He married Emma Annie Mills in 1941. They just celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary.

In March of 1945, during WWII, Robert enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served our country for more than 25yrs as a Chief Petty Officer and served until his retirement. He later took up his second career working for Seattle City Light for 25yrs. He retired again and began devoting his time to numerous volunteer organizations and community service including: (as a founding member) The Lake Sawyer Community Club, The Black Diamond Historical Society, and The Association of King County Historical Organizations (AKCHO). Serving also as a volunteer King County Marine Patrol Officer and Boating Advisory Board Member, Covington Water District Commissioner, City of Black Diamond Planning Commissioner and Labor Day Festival Committee Member and Park Patrol Volunteer. He received numerous awards for his volunteer work including Citizen of the Year in Black Diamond.

Anyone who knew "Bob" found him to be an amazing man. He could fix or make anything and was always the first to step forward to help or get things done. He was always busy with a project or planning one. He loved his family and was committed to helping make his community a better place while preserving history and heritage.

Anyone seeking to honor his memory could do so by donating to the AKCHO or the Black Diamond Community Center where he enjoyed lunch on Thursday afternoons.
An alternative would be to get involved. He always encouraged people to find what they loved and pursue it. His legacy is one of being willing to make an impact on his community for his country and family. Be at peace Grandpa, we will continue to help and carry on.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife of more than 70 years Emma Annie Eaton. He is also survived by his children, grandchildren, great and great great grandchildren.

Funeral Service Thursday August 4, 2011 , 2:15 pm at Tahoma National Cemetery