Wayne James Eaton


Wayne James Eaton (Jim), 79, of Duck Lake, went home to be with his Heavenly Father, while in Florida, on April 2, 2024. His joking, kindhearted and easy-going nature and always willing to lend a helpful hand is the legacy he left and will be missed, along with his love and devotion to his family.

Jim was born May 14, 1944, in Charlotte, MI, to Arlo and Margie Eaton. He attended Charlotte Schools and married his high school sweetheart, Sharyn (Kelly) in 1963. He began working for GM in 1964 and shortly after took classes at LCC to work skilled trades in tool grinding. After moving to Duck Lake in 1993, Jim was elected president of the Charlotte Landing Association where he served for 23 years. Jim and family enjoyed many summer days and holidays celebrating on the water, boating, skiing, fishing, pulling grandkids tubing and watching fireworks. Jim enjoyed serving his community as a volunteer fireman for the City of Charlotte for 20 years.

Upon retirement, after 40 years of service at GM, Jim and Sharyn wintered in Florida at their home in Lake Region Village. Throughout the years, he was extremely active in Horseshoe and Shuffleboard Club, showing his competitive drive along with being a good sport, always having a smile on his face and joking around with others. Jim was on the Dance committee and was voted Volunteer of the year in 2018 for helping with many projects and clubs when needed.

Jim is survived by wife Sharyn; son, Wayne J. Eaton, Jr.; son, Scott (Wanda) Eaton; daughter, Lisa (Jon) Villanueva; daughter, Heidi (Jason) Crocker; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brothers, Jack (Pam) Eaton and Tom (Doris) Eaton. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Charlotte Assembly of God on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Visitation is at 3 p.m. followed by service at 4 p.m.