Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
James Burdette Eagon lived life to the fullest, from April 16, 1956, to June 3, 2019. Jim grew up in Stevens Point, WI, and lived in Winneconne for the past 38 years. Jim was kind, witty, and had the unique ability to make everyone feel special. Jim was a model of diligence, always finding ways to be productive and helpful, and never complaining. He was a Renaissance man and had an insatiable hunger for learning, about everything from bees to politics to astronomy. Whether off on a global adventure or at home tending his garden, Jim found meaning and joy in every experience. Most of all, Jim enjoyed time with family and friends, whom he showed unconditional love and devotion. Jim was grateful for the support he received the past many months, especially from the nurses and doctors at Froedtert Hospital and UW Hospital.
Jim is survived by his wife, Wendy; sons, Eric (Emily) and Bryon (Emma); granddaughter, Belle; father, Bud; siblings Sally, John, Tom (Cindy), Mary (Richard), and Jean (Mike); mother-, sisters-, and brothers-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Brian; mother, Sarah; father-in-law, Don Gross; and sister-in-law, Kathy.
Jim worked to improve education throughout his career at UW-Fox Valley and UW Colleges. He served as a member of the Winneconne Town Board and Town Plan Commission. Jim lived a life of service, volunteering with numerous organizations, including the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, United Way Fox Cities, the UW-Fox Valley Foundation, Winneconne Thrift and Gift, and the Winnebago County Literacy Council.
Jim’s family and friends will celebrate his life every day, including on Saturday, August 3, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. at the UW-Fox Valley Communication Arts Center.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Community Foundation or United Way, or performing an act of service.
May we follow Jim’s example and be curious, be diligent, and be kind.
If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfh.net.
Teresa E Pleger wrote on June 15, 2019
My husband Tom and I had the privilege of working with Jim at UW-Fox Valley. He was a genuine, kind person. Always professional, but not in a stuffy way. He had a great sense of humor and a way of putting people at ease. We also were lucky enough to visit the Eagon's lovely home, at which they often served as gracious hosts to numerous UW and other social functions.
I did not know Jim had been ill. I remember how wonderful it was to see him when we stopped in at UW-Baraboo where he was serving for a short stint. I recall it always made you feel good to see his warm smile, and he always seemed so relaxed and genuine. I know if Tom were here he would be full of stories and memories he could share, Jim Eagon was such an enormous player in the UW-definitely one of the good guys.
My heart goes out to Wendy and his family. I feel honored to have known him and all that knew him are better people because of the standards he set and the way he carried himself. Jim, you were a class act and will be sorely missed. I don't know if it is possible, but if it is, Tom will be waiting to welcome you.
Edward Hunt wrote on June 11, 2019
Tom and Bud,
As you probably know I never had the pleasure of meeting Jim. But I suspect the Eagon family tradition was strong and generous through his lifetime.
Barb and I will be thinking of you as you move through the grief process.
Evelyn wrote on June 10, 2019
Through many trips with Jim in the past decade, I have discovered that Jim often leaves a trace of something behind. Many times it was an object (something about Wisconsin) that he intentionally set somewhere in a place for people to discover. Do you think that Jim left this time without leaving something behind?
Wendy, Eric, Bryon and family, I am very sorry for the loss of Jim. Although Jim has left this world, we know that he is not far. I continue to daily find many traces of him that he’s left behind. I hope that your family can embrace and carry on Jim’s legacy.
Much love and many hugs.
Angie Fralish on behalf of the Winnebago Literacy Council wrote on June 10, 2019
We are very sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. He was a thoughtful, caring, compassionate teacher/tutor and friend to everyone at the Literacy Council. Jim was a wonderful, sweet soul. Prayers for peace and healing. He will be missed.
Scott Neubert wrote on June 10, 2019
What a wonderful article. Jim was a great friend. We are so sorry for your loss Wendy but know that Jim will continue to help others in heaven
Barb and Rick Hillman wrote on June 10, 2019
Wendy and Family:
We are sorry to hear about Jim's passing. He was so easy to work with and handled budgets at UW Fox so efficiently and effectively. Jim was always willing to make time to discuss our budget and answered all questions we had about money. This is not always easy to manage but Jim did it with ease and grace. Jim was fun be around and seemed open to learning everything! God bless all of you at this most difficult time.
Bonnie& Ralph Bermke wrote on June 10, 2019
We are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I'm sure Aunt Sarah & Brian were there in heaven to greet him. Some day we will all be reunited.
Jaime Lori Allyson and Jessica Hewitt wrote on June 9, 2019
Wendy and family,
We are so sorry to hear about your loss of JIm. He was such a great man who made the world a better place! Wishing you all peace during this difficult time.
Jaime, Lori, Allyson, and Jessica Hewitt
jeff mueller wrote on June 9, 2019
Wendy and Family, my deepest condolances to you all. I remember Jim as both a student and then a fellow employee at UW-Fox, and I was honored to both work with and know Jim. Blessings.
Jim and Pamela Hart wrote on June 9, 2019
Pam and I are so sorry for your loss. Jim was a wonderful man and so extremely patient. My experiences with him throughout the early growth of our theater at UW Fox Valley was always a positive one. Later on, when I had the opportunity to work with your two boys, Jim was always there with a smile on his face and encouragement. God's blessings to you all as you deal with this difficult time. You are in our prayers.