James Rodney “Rod” Eaton, 89, of Napoleon passed away at 6:06 a.m., Sunday, January 19, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born near Napoleon on December 12, 1935, the son of Leon and Thelma Osborn Eaton. He was married to Shirley Meyer on February 1, 1964 and his wife of 60 year survives. Other survivors include one son Jeff (Becky) Eaton of Napoleon; one daughter Bobbie (Tim) Craig of Napoleon; four grandchildren Amber (Cole) Seaver, Heather Prince, Logan Craig, and Dawson Craig all of Napoleon; four great-grandchildren Autumn Swinney, Devon Hunter, Zane Banks, and Zeppelin Prince; two brothers Larry Eaton of Versailles and Gene (Sharon) Eaton of Napoleon. He was preceded in death by his parents, his great-grandson Ace Kingston Eaton, and his sister-in-law Judy Eaton. Mr. Eaton was a 1953 graduate of Napoleon High School. On October 14, 1953 Rod enlisted in the United States Navy and served three years, receiving the National Defense Medal for service to his country. In civilian life he owned and operated Rod Eaton Excavating and worked for 59 years for the Town of Napoleon, managing their wastewater treatment facility as well as street maintenance. He also did electric and plumbing work along with welding. Rod, always the engineer, built and flew model planes, built and hunted with muzzleloaders, and did woodworking. He and Shirley and their family enjoyed camping, visiting all of the continental United States. Rod was a member of the NMLRA, the Osgood Masonic Lodge, and the St. John Lutheran Church. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 22 at 12 p.m. at the St. John Lutheran Church in Napoleon with Pastor Martin Bornhoeft officiating. Burial will be in the Booher Cemetery near Napoleon. Visitation will also be on Wednesday beginning at 10 a.m. at the church. Memorials may be given to the St. John Lutheran Church furnace fund or the Napoleon Fire Department in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.