Charles Irwin Eaton Jr. Jan. 15, 1956 - June 19, 2025

Charles Irwin Eaton Jr., aged 69 years passed away on June 19, 2025 at Cooper Creek Senior Living in West Union, Iowa. 

Born on January 15, 1956 in Cresco, Iowa. Chuck and his parents then moved to Elkader when he was 2.  He graduated from Central Community High School, Class of 1974.  He spent all of his life rooted in the community he loved, dedicating over three decades to the Elkader Co-op.  Alongside his professional work, Chuck also contributed to his dad’s towing business with his brother Brett.  Even after retirement Chuck remained active by helping a local farming family during planting and harvest seasons. 

Chuck is survived by this daughter Michelle Eaton and son Michael Eaton both of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  His siblings Lori (Monty) Burns and Brett (Suann) Eaton both of Elkader along with two nieces and three nephews. 

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Charles I. Eaton, Sr. and Constance J. Eaton of Elkader and special friends August “Gus” and Marie Miller of Elkader.

In his younger years, Chuck enjoyed long stitch needlepoint.  He was an avid viewer of woodworking and home improvement shows, always interested in craftmanship and design.  One of Chuck’s most cherished places was Goodland, Minnesota where he spent memorable times fishing and exploring with Gus and Marie Miller.  Closer to home, he took great pride in maintaining a pristine lawn.  His lawn was a testament to his care and diligence. 

For the past seven years Chuck bravely faced Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.  Despite these challenges he continued to live independently in his Elkader home until April 2024.  He then moved to Great River Care Center in McGregor, Iowa and then Cooper Creek Senior Living in West Union, Iowa. 

Chuck’s life was marked by quite dedication to his work, to those around him and to the simple joys that brought him peace.  May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. 

Chuck’s final wishes were he be cremated with a private family burial at Norway Lutheran Church cemetery at a later date. 

Any memorials for Chuck can be sent to his daughter Michelle Eaton at 1270 32nd St NE, Cedar Rapids, IA.