John Howard Eakin

John was raised on an apple ranch in West Valley. He lost his Dad when he was 13, and, along with his mother, Helen, and grandparents, his brothers, Bob and Bill, stepped up to fill that role. Their love and guidance influenced John his entire life.

John went to West Valley High School, where he met his future wife, Susan Anderson. He went on to W.S.U., where he pledged Phi Delta Theta. The fraternity was also a very meaningful influence.

After graduation from W.S.U., John and Susan were married, a marriage that would last over 54 years. He served 4 years in the Air Force, one of those in Viet Nam, before settling back in Yakima, where he joined his brothers in the family business, Eakin Fruit Company.

In 1976, Matthew was born, followed by Aaron in 1978. John was a devoted father, and through the years, nothing pleased him more than spending time with the boys, mostly fishing and coaching baseball.

John struggled for many years with alcoholism, which led him to his second family, AA. The bonds he formed there defined the rest of his life.

John loved long car rides, fishing, hunting for birds with Pat Hannon and Don Patteson. He and Susan were part of a potluck group of dear friends for 40 years. They also spent many years with Pat and Sharon Hannon, playing cards, partying, and trips to Reno and Puget Sound. They raised their families together.

John was happiest outdoors, and tending the yard was a joy for him. For many years he had an annual fishing trip with his brothers to Sekiu, and that continued with his sons.

And then came the grandchildren, and John was smitten again. He loved Ella, Landen and Abby so much, and was so proud of all of their accomplishments.

Family was everything to John. He and Susan spent many winters in Hawaii, and he loved that. But his greatest joy was vacationing with Matt and Aaron, Lily, and the grandkids.

John is preceded in death by his brother Bob, sister-in-law Lois, and son Matthew.

He is survived by his wife Susan, son Aaron, daughter-in-law Lily, grandchildren Ella, Abby, and Landen, brother Bill, sister-in-law Mary, and beloved nieces and nephew.

A Celebration of John Eakin’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Keith & Keith Funeral Home followed by a reception. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.keithandkeith.com.