Vernon Delbert Eaton, 72, of Enumclaw, died July 5, 2002, in Bellevue. Vernon was born Nov. 30, 1929, in Terry, Mont., and had lived in Enumclaw for 49 years. He married his wife Helen Dec. 10, 1955.

He was a machinist mate 2nd class in the Navy from 1948 to 1952. Vernon was a retired machinist supervisor from Heath Techna, where worked for over 37 years, since 1993. He was a life member of Crescent Lodge No. 109 where he was master of the lodge five times, designed the pin for their 100-year celebration, and won the youth award from the lodge. He was a member of the Crystal Chapter OES, and was patron 13 times. He was a member of the Shriners, where he worked for the children treated in their hospitals. Vernon won the Grand Cross award for activities in Rainbow. He was a volunteer fireman in Federal Way for seven years.

He enjoyed life thoroughly, always camping, fishing and working in his yard. He loved his children and grandchildren, and will be missed by his family.

Vernon is survived by his wife Helen, of more than 46 years; his sons Delbert (Susan) Eaton of Buckley, Dale (Laurie) Eaton of Enumclaw, Robert Eaton of Puyallup; his daughters Debra (Bob) Walvante of Sachene, Texas, Vivian Robinson of Renton, Robin Helmbolt of Marsing, Idaho; his sisters Margaret (LeRoy) Bodin of Oak Harbor, Dorothy (John) Schulz of Oak Harbor, Francis (Jim) Burns of Mount Vernon; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Eugene and Harold Eaton.

Services will be Thursday, July 11, at 2 p.m., at Enumclaw Masonic Temple. Arrangements by Weeks’ Funeral home of Enumclaw. Memorials can be made to Shriner’s Childrens Hospital: PO Box 2472, Spokane, WA 99210. Or to the American Diabetes Association: 557 Roy Street, Seattle, WA 98109-4219.