Richard Eaton, 92, of Patterson, MO, passed away Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Clark's Mountain Nursing Center, Piedmont, MO. He was born May 9, 1925, at Peach Tree, Missouri, to parents William and Lillie (Wilcox) Eaton.

Many in the community have much to say about Richard. Some quotes are, “Sacrificed so much for his country; a humble man; one of the greatest men ever known; Hog Eye Rd will never be the same; always helping others by delivering fresh vegetables from the garden or stopping along side of the road to help change a tire.” Richard was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

At the age of 18, Richard honorably and unselfishly served his country from 1943-1945, earning a silver star medal; four bronze stars; a good conduct medal and a purple heart. He participated in Normandy, Central Europe, Northern France and Rhineland campaigns during the war.

The hard lessons learned by age twenty-one, molded Richard into a kind and compassionate man. It is hard to find a rare jewel; however, after coming home from service, Richard did just that. He married the one and only love of his life, Leila Haydu on December 29, 1945 and through their strong Christian faith, honesty to each other, hard work and perseverance, Richard and Leila spent the next seventy-one full and happy years together, fulfilling each chapter of their lives together until recently when Leila passed on November 25, 2017. He was a long time member of Patterson Baptist Church.

In addition to his wife he is preceded in death by parents; three brothers: Julian, Joy and William Eaton and one sister: Stella Street.

He is survived by two sons: Richard and wife Judy Eaton of Patterson and Steve Eaton also of Patterson; two daughters: Linda and husband Rick Laplant of Piedmont, and Spycie and husband Johnny Miller of Peoria, Il; ten grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; and ten great-great grandchildren. He was a Christian man and a member of Patterson Baptist Church.

Visitation was held Saturday, March 3, 2018, at 6:00 pm, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont, MO. Services for Richard followed Sunday, March 4, 2018, at 2:00 pm also at the Piedmont chapel. Pastor Jule Maskrod ministered to the family. Steve "Wick" Eaton, Dustin Dozard, Jake Eaton, Dan Dozard, Brandon Lashley and Hayden Eaton served as pallbearers. Burial with full military honors was at Patterson Cemetery. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com