Nancy Eaton

Nancy Ladine Eaton, wife, mother and grandmother passed away on Thursday, November 20 at the age of 88. Born on September 15, 1937, Nancy was the youngest child of George and Bess (White) Balcom. Being the only girl with a crew of older brothers was the genesis of Nancy's scrappy, vibrant energy.

Born and raised in Muskegon, Nancy attended Muskegon High School where she met her future husband, Gerald "Jerry" Eaton. She graduated with the Big Red class of 1955 and went on to earn her associates degree from Muskegon Community College. Nancy married Jerry on July 12, 1957 and together they were blessed with five children.

Nancy thrived as a wife and mom and was the heart of the Eaton home on Beach Street. She was a steadfast supporter of her children's activities and an ardent fan of the many teams Jerry coached. Nancy eventually stepped into a successful career as an advertising executive with Lamar Outdoor Advertising. Bright and motivated, Nancy broke barriers when she became the first woman president of the Michigan Outdoor Advertising Association. Her legacy will continue to pave the way for future generations.

Nancy's gregarious personality combined with a wicked sense of humor made for memorable family times and life-long friendships. Nancy cherished her time with friends at the Viking Linne Lodge No. 57, where she was a member for many years. Nancy especially enjoyed getting together with her group of fellow Big Red graduates, "The Gals of 55".

Nancy is survived by daughters Kelle Hunter, Kim (Bob) Novak, Kristi (Hughie) Pennachio and son, Kevin Eaton, seven grandchildren Nikole (Mike), Jessika (Brandon), Christopher, Tahnee (Joe), Jaret (Jessica), Tyler (Tiffany) and Trent (Stacey) and great grandchildren Julian, Alexa, Gianna, Kaysen, Mikey, Charlotte, Dylan, Landen, Finn, Ryder and Vayla.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry in 2022, her son Gerald, Jr. "Skeeter" in 1984 and son-in-law, Robert Hunter in 2022 as well as brothers, Donald, Bruce and Richard Balcom.

We hope you will join us at the Viking Lodge to celebrate and remember Nancy's remarkable and love-filled life at a later date to be announced. We will miss her love and devotion, her spark and irreverence, her originality and laughter. But we will be forever grateful for the difference she made in our lives and her legacy of love that will live on.