Harry "Gene" Eugene Eaton

Harry Eugene “Gene” Eaton, 84, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Gene was born on February 11, 1942, on his family’s farm in Gove County, Kansas, to Moses and Elizabeth Eaton. Growing up on the farm helped shape the strong work ethic and warm sense of humor that would define him throughout his life. He graduated from Oakley High School and later attended Wichita Business College.

On December 28, 1961, Gene married the love of his life, Jean Kay Jones. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and laughter, sharing 64 wonderful years of marriage.

Gene began his career at the Wichita Eagle and Beacon newspaper. Shortly thereafter, he joined AM Multigraphics, where he sold printing machinery and equipment. Over the course of 17 years, Gene built a successful career with the company, rising to the position of District Sales Manager before concluding his time there in 1980.

That same year, Gene took an entrepreneurial leap and opened a Big Red Q Quickprint franchise. After 11 successful years, he chose to step away from the franchise model and continued operating his business independently under the name The Printing Station. Gene proudly served his customers and community through his printing company until his retirement in 2004. Throughout his career, he was deeply involved in the printing industry and served on numerous business association boards, including as President of Printing Industries of the Midlands.

Outside of work, Gene found his greatest joy in time spent with family and friends. He loved camping and fishing trips, tinkering in his woodworking shop, and collecting tools. He also had a passion for motorcycles and music. A lifelong musician, Gene especially loved old-school country music and was often happiest with a guitar in hand or a favorite song playing nearby. Known for his ever-present smile and quick wit, Gene never missed an opportunity to share a joke and brighten someone’s day.

Gene is lovingly remembered by his wife, Jean Eaton; his children, Mitchell (Kris) Eaton of Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, Lance (Meg) Eaton of Grimes, Iowa, and Jeannette (Steve) of Swan, Iowa; his brothers, Skip (Mary) Eaton of Sarasota, Florida, and Marc (Jan) Eaton of Nashville, Tennessee; and his seven grandchildren, Kyle, Matt (Molly), Hayley (Josh), Jennifer, Bryan (Deanna), Emma, and Audrey. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Moses and Elizabeth Eaton.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care team at St. Croix Hospice for their support and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Croix Hospice or AHeinz57 Pet Rescue.

Gene will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his kindness, his humor, and the love he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him.