The family and friends of Thomas Michael Eaton would like to share the news that Thom Eaton went to his heavenly home on May 7, 2021. He is loved and missed by his wife, Susan, and his two children, Amber Schreckengaust, and Michael S. Eaton, and their half sister Georgiana Wentz, and their mother, Catherine Wentz. He is also loved and remembered by his grandchildren, John, Grace, and William Schreckengaust, and River and Sage Eaton. He remains in the hearts of his son in law, Scott Schreckengaust, and daughter in law, Sanoe Eaton. He also is fondly remembered by his step children Felicia Bimer and Thomas Johnsen. His twin sister, Theresa Eaton will always love and cherish memories of growing up with Thomas. He also leaves behind 3 loving grandchildren by marriage to Susan; Ileiana, Willie and Seleina Tupolo. Thomas also has a long time friendship of over 40 years with his brother in law, Ron Lines, who he enjoyed working with at The Albatross Restaurant in Del Mar, CA back in the early 1970's, and his sister in law, Laurie Lines Jones, who was a baby sitter for his children during this same time period. 


Thomas was born May 2, 1943, in Savana, Illinois, the second of two twins. His parents were Clarence and Geraldine Eaton. He had one older sibling,  James Eaton.

Thom's midwestern charm endeared him to so many. His charisma was magnetic and he gathered many friends and admirers during his 78 years here on earth.

Thom was an excellent basketballer and earned himself a full scholarship to Nevada State University. After attending college, he moved to La Jolla, California, and then served in the Army Reserves for 6 years. 

During his time in the Army Reserves, Thom lived in St. Louis. He played in the minor leagues and was called up to be a catcher for the St Louis Cardinals. 

Thom established a "legendary" status in the San Diego and North County areas. His "suave faire" and larger than life presence secured his lifelong friendships that grieve his loss today. Thom worked throughout San Diego County in the restaurant industry and in sales. He owned a frozen yogurt shop in Del Mar, CA for which he is remembered by locals and was visited by celebrities, especially during the horse racing season.

Thom traveled throughout Europe extensively during his life and was well educated in culture and international cuisine. Preparing lavish dinners for family and friends was one of his favorite pleasures and everyone enjoyed being entertained by Thom.

Thom was a Celtic fan for more than 60 years. He never waivered in his loyalties, whether it be to his favorite team, a friend or relative or some one whom he admired. And you could always count on Thom to produce an original, one of a kind creation, no matter what the production.

Photography captured his imagination, beginning with photographing his kids and moving into nature, and people and structures, using found objects and creating his "Photings." He believed without a doubt that his talent was God-given. And he gave God credit for his creativity.

Thom was adored by his family who loved spending time with him. And he  enjoyed being with his children and grandchildren more than anything else.

As much as he loved his family, his personal priorities were God first and everything else second. Thom loved the Lord with all his heart, mind, soul and strength and in his later years he would send weekly emails to a list of over two hundred people to encourage them with devotionals and life application of God's Word. Thom was loved and revered for his wisdom and compassion.


Thom served as a volunteer Chaplain at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Murrieta, CA.. This was a great honor and priviledge for him to be able share his faith and minister to those in the hospital and pray for their needs. 

Thom has several charities that he contributed to on a monthly basis. One of the charities nearest to his heart is the "dig deep right to water project."  They provide clean water to many remote and impoverished areas, such as Indian reservations, in the USA. You can GOOGLE digdeep.org  to read about the lifesaving work in which they are involved. If you wish to make a donation  in honor of Thom,  please go to the "giving" section of this website. 

His Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on August 7, 2021 at Redemption Christian Fellowship in Menifee, CA. Announcements will be forthcoming and posted on this website. Go to "Events" section.