EDINGURGH — Jim Eaton, 67, died Wednesday.

He was former owner of the Eskew-Eaton Funeral Home in Edinburgh, and a one-time president of the Edinburgh Lions Club. He also served on the Board of Directors for Blue River Savings and Loan for many years.

Jim is remembered as a faithful husband of 45 years, a loving father and grandfather and trusted friend to many. He was a talented craftsman, savvy businessman and skilled outdoorsman. Jim had a lifelong love for the outdoors and found happiness running limb lines on Blue River, trolling for bass in Lake Monroe and deer hunting in Jackson County.

He also enjoyed spending time with his son and grandchildren. He took pride in their success with academics and athletics. Jim was an insightful teacher and mentor and has passed his love for the outdoors to his grandson.

Jim was skilled in the kitchen and enjoyed sharing new recipes with friends and family. He also liked to travel and visit with friends in Florida and Oregon. He and Judy spent a lot of time at their property (fondly know as “The Woods”) near Houston in Jackson County. Jim and his buddies made annual trips to The Woods for “Deer Camp” and “Turkey Camp.”

Jim was born in Washington and grew up on a small farm near Plainville. He often recounted stories of Sunday dinners at his grandma’s house with extended family and days spent hoeing watermelons and cantaloupes with his brother and cousins.

Survivors include his wife, Judy (Bateman) Eaton; one brother, Kent (Janie) Eaton of Greenwood; one son Nathan (Anna) Eaton of Columbus; and three grandchildren, Kaden, Alexa, and Macy Eaton. Judy’s parents, Archie and Dorothy Bateman, live in Washington.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Vonnell Eaton and son, Chris Eaton.

Jim leaves an enduring legacy of love through memories of shared experiences with friends, family and clients he served through his business.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Edinburgh Dollars for Scholars (Chris Eaton Memorial). Mail to Eskew-Eaton Funeral Home, 302 E. Main Cross St., Edinburgh, IN 46124.

Services will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, at Eskew-Eaton Funeral Home in Edinburgh, with Rev. Dean Mathis officiating. Visitation is from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, with interment at Rest Haven Cemetery in Edinburgh.

(Oct. 28, 2009)