Elwyn W. "Bud" Eaton Jr.

Elwyn “Bud” Eaton Jr. of Castle Creek, (1939-2026) age 86, passed away peaceful surrounded
by the legacy of a life defined by service, leadership, and his loving family on June 26, 2026. He
was lifelong resident of the Castle Creek community and a dedicated public servant.
Bud was a proud graduate of Whitney Point Central School District, class of 1957. Following
graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy. During his military
career, he trained as a Communications Technician in Bainbridge, Maryland, and was later
stationed in Adak, Alaska, where he intercepted and translated foreign communications. He
concluded his Naval service working within the National Security Agency in Maryland.
Upon returning home, Bud devoted his life to serving his community. He joined the Castle Creek
Fire Department in 1959 and remained an active member for decades. Throughout his years of
service, he held the roles of Assistant Fire Chief and Chief, exemplifying leadership, courage,
and unwavering dedication. Even later in life, he continued to serve as Safety Officer. Bud was
passionate about mentoring young firefighters and played a key role in strengthening emergency
services in the area, including helping to merge the Castle Creek and Chenango Fire Companies
to improve response times and efficiency.
Bud was also a charter member of the Northern Broome Fire Chiefs Association and an active
member of the Broome County Fire Chiefs, serving both organizations as secretary for over 25
years. He further contributed as Assistant Chairman and representative on the Broome County
Fire Advisory Board. His commitment extended to the Broome County Wildland Search and
Rescue Team, where he served as Captain and participated in numerous life-saving missions.
Outside of his volunteer service, Bud was a hardworking and dedicated employee. He worked at
the Press & Sun Bulletin beginning in 1960, retiring in 2000 as Pressroom Supervisor. He also
served his community as a bus driver for the Whitney Point School District for 46 years.
Bud received many awards and recognitions throughout his life for his extraordinary
contributions. However, he would often say his greatest accomplishment was his family—raising
his six children, who carry on his values and legacy.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 51 years, Shirley (Walker) Eaton; his parents, Elwyn
Eaton Sr. and Elizabeth (Richardson) Eaton; his brothers, David and Gary Eaton; and his sister-
in-law, Carole Eaton.
Bud is survived by his greatest blessings, his children: Carmen Eaton, Debra (David) Meier, John
(Michele) Eaton, Scott Eaton (Lori Hughes), Jennifer (Brian) Preston, and Patricia (Robert)
Gollogly. His brother Charles (Linda) Eaton and sister-in-law Jaynne Eaton. His wonderful
companion Becky Wade, who he shared many wonderful years with and they cared for each
other deeply. Many cherished grandchildren, Chris (Dawn) Eaton, Antoine (Kenney) Eaton,
Andrew (Sarah) Eaton, Curtis Eaton, Stephen Eaton, Katie Eaton (Davis Eastman), Tim

(Makayla) Eaton, Zachary Gollolgy (Halie Chauncey), Sarah Preston (Josh Bogdanowicz),
Alyssa Gollogly (Dominic Spencer), Lincoln Gollogly. He also leaves behind great
grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends.
Bud’s life was one of service, sacrifice, and deep devotion—to his country, his community, and
most of all, his family. His impact will be felt for generations, and he will live on through the
lives he touched.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Sunset
Memorial Services in Whitney Point. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, July 11,
2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Chenango Fire Station #2 in Castle Creek.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to the Whitney Point Senior
Center or the Chenango Fire Company.

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