Ralph Scott Eaton

Ralph Scott Eaton Jr., of Waterford, Michigan, passed away on March 11, 2025, at the age of 96. Born July 1, 1928, in Highland Park, Michigan, he was a Beloved Brother, Uncle, and Great Uncle. Eldest of three siblings, as a youngster his father nicknamed him “Sandy.”

Ralph graduated from Clarkston High School (Michigan) before serving in the United States Navy aboard the USS Manchester and the USS Dayton in the aftermath of World War II. Following his military service, he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering at Michigan State College. He remained a staunch Spartan supporter throughout his lifetime.

After college his career took him to Boston, New Orleans, and elsewhere. When his mother passed away, he moved back to live with his father.

Ralph had a long career as an electrical engineer at Chrysler Corporation, Defense Division, which later became General Dynamics. For several decades with work colleagues, he helped build and later crewed on a large sailboat that made annual summer excursions to destinations in the Great Lakes. They called themselves “The Hombres.”

“Uncle Ralph” was beloved by two generations of nieces and nephews who were entertained by his quick wit, learned DIY lessons from him, and enjoyed doing projects with him. Ralph was a treasured guest of his sister and her family for holidays, vacations, and special events.

Ralph was an accomplished Do-it-Yourself (DIY) practitioner, taking pride in maintaining his home, yard and Chrysler automobiles. He remodeled his childhood home after his father passed away. He especially enjoyed electronics projects and built several projects from kits, including his own Television.

Ralph enjoyed taking walks through his neighborhood, wearing his Michigan State cap, and was always greeted by neighbors along the way.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Sr. and Mary (Conn) Eaton, as well as his brother David Eaton. He is fondly remembered by his sister Sara Welch (Glenn), and nieces and nephews: Amy Eaton, Lynn Eaton, Alison Eaton, Scott Eaton, James Welch and Ellen (Welch) Keller, as well as his friends and neighbors.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM at Crescent Hills Cemetery, located on Crescent Lake Road between Tubbs Road and Civic Center Drive in Waterford, Michigan (48329). May Ralph’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and an appreciation for a life he lived his way.

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