EAST WILTON – Howard Lewis Yeaton Sr., 91, of East Wilton, passed away Friday, May 11, in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Sept. 12, 1915, on the family farm in Farmington, a son of Norman and Verna (Mosher) Yeaton. He received his education at the Little Red Schoolhouse and graduated from Farmington High School. On May 6, 1939, he married Iona Pease of East Wilton at her family’s home.

He was employed at the Wilton Woolen Mill and for 29 years, worked for K & H Foster, where he was well-known for his masonry work. He later worked at G.H. Bass. He had a very strong work ethic and even in his retirement, continued working for others throughout his beloved community.

He was the former fire chief of the East Wilton Fire Department and in his free time he enjoyed woodworking, hunting with his grandkids and snowmobiling. In his youth, he enjoyed motorcycling with his friends. He was quick-witted, thoughtful and truly loved children for their individuality.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Iona, of East Wilton; one son, H. Lewis Yeaton Jr., and his wife, Roberta, of East Wilton; one daughter, Anne Yeaton Beisaw, and her companion, Barry Gottshall, of Strong; one brother, Lawrence Yeaton, and his wife, Gaynelle, of Farmington; a daughter-in-law, Bonnie Yeaton, of Weld; 15 grandchildren, Steven Yeaton, David, Dennis, Jeffrey, Kevin, Robert and Alan Beisaw, Rhonda deWildt, Mary Anne Havtan, Catherine Stahura, Michele Catinella, Deborah Knapp, Elizabeth “Beth” Evans, Traci Murray and Mary Jo Harmon; 25 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and his former son-in-law, Edgar Beisaw of Wilton.

He was predeceased by a son, David N. Yeaton Oct. 27, 1998; six brothers and a sister, Stanton, Horace, John, Leo, Herbert and Walter Yeaton and Barbara Seamon.