Winford “Dane” Eaton 76, of Early passed away Wednesday, March 16th, 2022 with family at his side.

A graveside memorial will be held at a later date for friends and family. Heartland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Dane was born in Brownwood to Norma Jean Thompson on December 1,1945. He grew up in Brownwood and attended both Brownwood and Bangs ISD.

Dane married Linda Gayle Phillips in January of 1965 and they were married for 55 years. They have two children Deborah Kim Eaton, of Early and Sean Eric Eaton, of Lake Brownwood as well as two grandchildren Mykaela LouAnne Eaton, Zachary Sean Leroy Eaton both of Brownwood. Three fur babies Lilly Mae, Sadie and Sylvia his cat.

Dane and Leroy Thompson, who was his granddad, owned Thompson’s Wrecking Yard where they specialized in spring and wrecker service. He learned auto and motorcycle mechanics at a young age and his hobbies included aviation, motorcycles, guns and a collector of various things.

He also owned Asphalt Aviation in Brownwood for several years, and then moved it to Early, Texas in the early 80’s. This is where he established many friendships which turned into a brotherhood of family and lifelong friends.

Dane was a very unique man with a wonderful sense of humor and he was the type of man who extended his hand to whoever needed it at the time. Dane loved his Lord, his family, friends and fur babies very much. He will be missed dearly by all those who loved him!